How many kilometers should a new car run before its first maintenance?
3 Answers
According to different car models, manufacturers will specify different maintenance intervals, generally most are 3,000 or 5,000 kilometers. The following is the relevant introduction: 1. The first maintenance of a car usually involves changing the engine oil and oil filter. Check the working condition of the engine, such as whether all pipe connections are normal, whether there are any leakage points, whether the engine sound is normal, and whether there are any abnormal noises. 2. Check the degree of wear on the brake pads and tires, and after lifting the vehicle, check whether there is any deformation or damage to the chassis caused by collisions. 3. The purpose of changing the engine oil is to ensure better lubrication for the engine, because after a period of use, the lubrication effect of the oil will deteriorate, so it needs to be replaced.
After getting my new car, I've been paying close attention to the timing of the first maintenance. Generally speaking, driving 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers is the optimal time window. When I bought my last car, I did the first maintenance at 4,000 kilometers. During this period, the engine is still in the break-in phase and will produce some impurities. Early maintenance helps remove sludge and prevents damage to internal components. The owner's manual usually specifies exact requirements - for example, German cars might need service at 5,000 km while domestic models may require it at 3,000 km. I believe it's better not to wait too long, as early maintenance can help identify hidden issues. My friend delayed until 6,000 km, and his car started developing slight vibrations. For mostly city driving, schedule maintenance around 4,000 km; if you do more highway driving, you can wait slightly longer but don't exceed the limit. The key is to check your maintenance manual, as requirements vary by model. Developing this habit can extend your car's lifespan by several years.
For the first maintenance of a new car, I recommend keeping it within 5,000 kilometers for safety. Personally, I prefer taking my new car for its first service at around 4,500 kilometers, mainly to change the engine oil and filter, promptly removing debris generated during the break-in period. The importance of the first maintenance lies in protecting the engine and extending its overall lifespan. Don't do it too early, like changing the oil at 2,000 kilometers, which is a bit wasteful; nor should you exceed 6,000 kilometers, as accumulated metal debris can lead to accelerated wear. With my first car, I almost ran into problems because I delayed it. Remember to check the specific requirements in your vehicle's manual, as some brands, like Japanese cars, may require service at 3,000 kilometers. When making an appointment with the 4S shop, bring your documents—most first services are free, and you can also learn about subsequent maintenance.
