How many kilometers should a car run for its first maintenance?
2 Answers
Generally, a car should undergo its first maintenance after running approximately 5,000 kilometers. The first maintenance refers to the initial servicing after the car has been driven. The inspection items include: 1. Checking the coolant level of the car; 2. Checking the brake and clutch fluid levels; 3. Checking the steering oil tank level and whether there are any oil leaks at the oil pipe interfaces; 4. Inspecting the battery fluid level and the windshield washer fluid tank level; 5. Examining the tension and aging condition of the belts for the generator, air conditioning, water pump, and power steering pump. The purposes of the first car maintenance are: 1. Ensuring the vehicle is in good performance condition; 2. Effectively improving the vehicle's efficiency and reducing the wear of parts and tires; 3. Enhancing driving safety; 4. Preventing vehicle breakdowns; 5. Reducing noise and environmental pollution; 6. Maintaining the vehicle's appearance cleanliness and preventing damage.
I remember the first car service is quite crucial. A new car needs a break-in period just like a human being. Generally, the first service mileage ranges between 3,000 to 10,000 kilometers, depending on your car manufacturer's manual. For brands like Volkswagen and Toyota, they usually recommend 5,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first. Having driven several cars, I found that if there's a lot of city traffic congestion, you should go for the service within 5,000 kilometers to avoid engine wear. The first service mainly involves changing the engine oil, oil filter, and checking key components. Don’t underestimate it—metal parts shed debris during the initial operation of a new car, and early maintenance can extend the engine's lifespan. If you miss the first service window, the dealership might deny warranty coverage, leading to higher repair costs later. In short, I always remind my friends to schedule an appointment before the odometer reaches 5,000 kilometers to avoid last-minute hassles.
