Is an oil change required for the first maintenance?
2 Answers
An oil change is required for the first maintenance; it is recommended to change the oil, oil filter, conduct a full vehicle inspection, and clean and protect the lubrication system and fuel system at 5,000KM. At 20,000KM, additionally replace the air filter, fuel filter, spark plugs, and clean and protect the transmission. At 50,000KM, further clean and protect the cooling system. Benefits of engine oil: 1. Lubrication: There is rapid relative sliding between the piston and cylinder, as well as between the main shaft and bearing bush. To prevent excessive wear of parts, an oil film needs to be established between the two sliding surfaces. A sufficiently thick oil film separates the surfaces of the relatively sliding parts, thereby reducing wear. 2. Cooling: Engine oil can carry heat back to the oil tank and then dissipate it into the air, helping the radiator cool the engine. 3. Cleaning: High-quality engine oil can carry carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles from engine parts back to the oil tank through circulation, flushing away dirt generated on the working surfaces of parts via the flow of lubricating oil. 4. Sealing and leak prevention: Engine oil can form a sealing ring between the piston rings and piston, reducing gas leakage and preventing external pollutants from entering.
I just had the first maintenance service for my new car. The technician at the 4S dealership insisted on changing the engine oil, explaining that during the break-in period of a new engine, it generates a considerable amount of metal debris. If mixed into the oil, this debris can impair lubrication effectiveness. Failure to change the oil may lead to accumulated wear on internal engine components over time, shortening the engine's lifespan and resulting in costly repairs. Typically, the first maintenance service for new cars is free, with oil change being one of the core services, alongside checks on brakes, tires, etc. I personally saw how dark and dirty the old oil was, and after the change, the engine sounded noticeably smoother. I advise fellow car owners not to skimp on this essential service—after all, your vehicle is a significant investment, and safety should always come first.
