How Long is the First Car Maintenance Considered Overdue?
3 Answers
Car first maintenance is calculated from the date of vehicle pickup, and it is considered overdue if it exceeds 3 months or approximately 3,000 kilometers. Different car brands have varying requirements, so it's advisable to refer to the manual. Key points to note for the first maintenance include: 1. Schedule an appointment in advance; 2. Record any malfunctions or questions encountered while driving and inform the staff during the maintenance registration. The first maintenance items include: 1. Replacement of engine oil, oil filter, cleaning of the air filter, and inspection for any damage to the generator belt and wiper blades; 2. Checking the levels of various fluids to ensure they are normal; 3. Verifying tire pressure is normal and inspecting tires for uneven wear, bulges, or damage; 4. Inspecting the car chassis, including brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, and CV joints for any scratches; 5. Ensuring all switches and lights in the car are functioning properly.
I remember when I bought my first car, I was completely clueless about the first maintenance schedule. Later, after consulting professionals, I learned that the first maintenance for a new car should typically be done within six months from the purchase date or when it reaches 5,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. If you miss this deadline, the 4S shop might consider your first maintenance overdue, which means the original factory warranty may not cover subsequent faults. Once, I was delayed by a few weeks due to work, and when I discovered an abnormal engine noise that needed inspection, they almost refused to cover it. Fortunately, I managed to persuade them after some persistence. Since then, I've made it a habit to keep the car manual in the car for frequent reference and set phone calendar reminders to avoid delays. Regular maintenance isn't just for the warranty—it also helps prevent mechanical wear and avoids costly repairs down the line. In short, don't let overdue issues cost you money and time.
In the process of dealing with cars, I've noticed that many people are unclear about the concept of the first maintenance. Standardly, the validity period for a car's first maintenance is mostly set within 6 months or 5,000 kilometers driven. Once exceeded, it's considered overdue, affecting the manufacturer's warranty commitment. If engine or other components develop problems after the overdue period, you might have to pay a high price for repairs. For example, I've seen cases where delayed first maintenance led to oil sedimentation blocking the oil passages, doubling the repair costs. It's advisable to go to a 4S shop or designated service point for inspection as early as possible, without taking chances. Meanwhile, keep the maintenance records as proof for future verification. Regular first maintenance also helps maintain the vehicle's condition and extends its overall lifespan.
