How many kilometers is appropriate for the first maintenance of a new car?
4 Answers
The first maintenance of a new car is generally around 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers. Below are some precautions regarding vehicle maintenance: Regularly clean the body stains: If the car's paint surface is soaked with stains for a long time, the paint will become dull and its glossiness will decrease. Regularly change the vehicle's engine oil: The engine oil has a limited lifespan, so it's important to change it periodically. Over time, the oil becomes increasingly dirty and can damage the car's engine. Regularly check the vehicle's radiator: Make sure to check if there is water in the radiator. Never start the engine with an empty radiator, as it could potentially burn out the engine.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, my recommendation for new car first maintenance is ideally between 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers. My first car was a Nissan, and the manual stated the first service could be done at 7,500 km, but I preferred taking it to the dealership at 6,000 km. At that time, I had the full synthetic oil and air filter replaced, and the brake pads and suspension system checked. During the break-in period, metal debris accumulates in the engine, and if not cleaned out promptly, it can accelerate wear, leading to increased fuel consumption or reduced power. Delaying maintenance beyond 10,000 km may also void the warranty, leaving you to foot the repair bills. I remember a friend who waited too long, and his car developed strange noises, costing him around a thousand yuan in repairs. That's why I set a mileage reminder to schedule maintenance at 6,000 km, keeping the car in like-new condition and ensuring a more worry-free and comfortable drive.
I bought my car less than half a year ago. As a novice driver, I believe the first maintenance should be done within 8,000 kilometers. My Hyundai Elantra manual recommends the first service within 10,000 kilometers. However, I didn’t want to take any chances, so I went to the 4S dealership for the first service at 7,000 kilometers, where they changed the engine oil and filter, and checked the tires and lights. New drivers like me who don’t understand mechanical details rely on professionals to ensure everything is in order—delaying maintenance could void the warranty, leaving us to pay for any subsequent issues out of pocket. City driving often involves traffic jams, putting extra load on the engine, so early maintenance can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. I suggest new car owners like me carefully read the manual and follow the brand’s recommended intervals—some Japanese cars, for example, may require service at 5,000 kilometers—and avoid delaying maintenance on a whim. After the service, the car runs smoother, and I feel much more at ease.
I'm a young car enthusiast who loves modifying cars and racing on tracks. For the first maintenance of a new car, I believe performance vehicles should have it done within 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers. Take my Mazda sports car for example—the manufacturer recommends the first service at 3,000 km. I replaced the factory oil with synthetic oil and had the cooling and transmission systems checked. High-performance engines tend to accumulate carbon deposits under high RPMs, so early maintenance can enhance acceleration and responsiveness. For regular family cars, 5,000 km might be acceptable, but for long-term use, it's advisable not to exceed the limit to prevent oil leaks or loose components that could cause hidden issues. After maintenance, the car feels more powerful on highways, and fuel consumption remains stable.
