
Check for oil leaks or seepage in the engine and transmission, inspect the lights, tire pressure, and wear on the inner side of the tires, as well as the brake pads and the fluid level of the brake oil. When changing the oil, pay attention to the oil level—it should be slightly above the middle between the lower and upper limits. Never let it go below the lower limit or exceed the upper limit.

Last week, I took my new car for its first maintenance service, and the process was quite straightforward. Upon arriving at the dealership, I first met with the service advisor and handed over my vehicle license and maintenance manual for registration. The first service basically involves an oil change and oil filter replacement. The technician also checks key components like tire pressure, brake pads, and chassis bolts. Remember to make an appointment in advance to avoid long queues, as some 4S shops get crowded on weekends. While waiting in the lounge, I noticed they were also upgrading the car's computer program—such complimentary checks are really nice. Here’s the key point: The first maintenance is usually covered by the manufacturer, so make sure to clarify any chargeable items to avoid being upsold. When picking up the car, I saw the next service mileage marked on the work order, and the windshield washer fluid was topped up. The whole process took about an hour and a half.

Just had my first maintenance, here's some advice from experience. Bring the purchase invoice and maintenance manual—these two are the most crucial, no need for ID. It's best to book the first slot on a weekday morning; arriving at 8:30 AM usually means no waiting. The service advisor will put seat covers on, so remember to remind him to note any minor issues you've encountered with the car. For example, I mentioned the wiper noise, and it was fixed on the spot. Pay close attention to whether the oil used is the manufacturer's specified type—I specifically checked the original label on the oil barrel for peace of mind. The lounge has a monitor showing workshop operations, and I noticed the mechanic also adjusted the door hinge noise for free. Finally, make sure to get the zero-charge work order—don’t miss any items on this free service.

The first maintenance is essentially a health check for your new car. Upon arrival at the dealership, provide your license plate number, and the service advisor will verify your eligibility for the first maintenance in the system. The service mainly includes an oil and filter change, along with a full electronic system scan and light inspection. Remember to bring your blue maintenance manual for stamping. It's advisable to make a phone appointment in advance to save time, and bringing your owner's manual is always a good idea. The technician in the workshop also checked the battery health and cleaned the air conditioning filter. Pay special attention to the undercarriage inspection, as transport brackets might not have been fully removed on new cars. Don't forget to ask for the complimentary car wash at the end—the whole process takes about forty minutes.


