Is Engine Cleaning Necessary During the First Maintenance?
2 Answers
It is unnecessary to clean the engine during the first maintenance; simply follow the maintenance manual. Below are relevant details: 1. First Maintenance Timing: Generally, the first maintenance for a car occurs between 3-5 months, with a mileage of 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers. Some vehicles may even extend up to 8,000 kilometers, depending on the specific technical conditions of the vehicle. The engine undergoes a break-in period with a new car, and different brands and models are equipped with different engines. Some engines use special technologies that require strict oil specifications, while others are made with special materials and high precision, resulting in relatively less wear. 2. First Maintenance Items: Replace the engine oil and oil filter; inspect the operation of the braking system, such as the gap and wear of brake pads and discs; tighten bolts in various systems; check and adjust drive belts; check and adjust tire balance and alignment; inspect and replenish various fluids; check the operation of components like lights, batteries, and shock absorbers.
I've driven several cars, and an engine flush during the first maintenance is usually unnecessary. The engine internals of a new car are relatively clean, and any minor impurities from the break-in period are filtered out by the oil. Additional flushing might introduce chemical residues or even damage components. Dealerships often recommend this to make extra money—costing hundreds with little real benefit. My previous SUV never had an engine flush during its first service, yet the engine ran smoothly for eight years. I’d suggest spending that money on high-quality oil or routine maintenance instead. The owner’s manual doesn’t mandate it either. Unless you’re driving daily on construction sites or in sandstorm-prone areas, flushing is just a waste of money.
