How often should a car undergo its first maintenance?
2 Answers
Car first maintenance time is between 3 to 5 months, with the first maintenance mileage ranging from 3,000 kilometers to 5,000 kilometers, and even up to 8,000 kilometers for some vehicles. Maintenance items include: changing the engine oil, replacing the oil filter, checking and topping up the auxiliary water tank level, checking and replenishing the wiper fluid tank, inspecting and adjusting the tire pressure for all four wheels, and performing routine engine cleaning. These are the basic items. The period from when a new car is driven until its first maintenance is called the break-in period. During the break-in period, since the gears of the engine, transmission, etc., have not yet fully broken in smoothly, it is generally not advisable to drive too fast, absolutely not exceeding 100 km/h, and it is recommended not to exceed 80 km/h. During the break-in period, in addition to not exceeding 100 km/h, the engine speed should also not exceed 3,000 rpm. Otherwise, it will not be good for the engine break-in. After a good break-in, the car will have fewer driving problems and will also be more fuel-efficient.
When I bought the car, the salesperson reminded me to do the first maintenance at three months or 5,000 kilometers, depending on the model's manual. I'm a meticulous type, so following the manual is always the right choice. After the break-in period, it's appropriate to perform maintenance, as changing the oil can remove metal particles generated during initial operation and protect the engine. Delaying maintenance may accelerate part wear and could even affect warranty services. From personal experience, it's best to book an appointment with the dealership in advance to avoid long waits. Don't rush to save money at this stage—small maintenance costs now can ensure greater safety in the future. Also, pay attention to driving habits, such as avoiding aggressive acceleration when starting a cold engine and maintaining a steady speed, which helps prolong the vehicle's lifespan.