Is it mandatory to complete Toyota's first inspection within 3 months?
2 Answers
Generally, the first inspection should be done at 3,000 kilometers or within 3 months, mainly to check the condition of the new car, such as whether the factory screws are loose. Below are detailed explanations about car maintenance: 1. Minor car maintenance: Even if you don't drive much, minor maintenance is required annually because its main tasks include changing the engine oil and oil filter. Engine oil performance gradually degrades with mileage and time, so regular oil and filter changes are necessary to ensure the engine's healthy operation. 2. Major car maintenance: When a certain mileage or time is reached, major maintenance involves replacing all vehicle fluid components in addition to minor maintenance tasks, as parts like fuel filters and spark plugs don’t need replacement every minor maintenance. Moreover, besides basic full-vehicle inspections, major maintenance requires further testing of the engine and the entire braking system, primarily to eliminate potential faults and ensure safe driving.
I bought a new Toyota earlier, and the dealership salesperson kept emphasizing that the first inspection should be done within three months. I procrastinated a bit and went for the check-up a month late. It turned out that the front tire pressure was unbalanced, but they adjusted it for free—fortunately, nothing major was wrong. The manual recommends the first maintenance at three months or 5,000 kilometers, whichever comes first, to ensure a smooth break-in period and prevent minor issues from escalating. While delaying a bit may not necessarily cause problems, exceeding the mileage too much or ignoring warning lights could affect warranty coverage. I think it’s best to set a phone reminder and visit the 4S shop once the mileage is halfway there—it doesn’t take much time. Now, after two years of driving, sticking to regular maintenance has been hassle-free, and the engine even sounds quieter than my neighbor’s car.
