Is it mandatory to have the first car maintenance at the designated 4S store?
3 Answers
The first car maintenance does not have to be done at the 4S store where the car was purchased. Relevant information is introduced as follows: The 4S store where the car was purchased usually offers free maintenance services. If the vehicle has exceeded the warranty period, you can choose to go to other professional car maintenance shops for service. When visiting the 4S store for the first maintenance, you need to bring the first maintenance voucher and the vehicle maintenance manual. The content of the first car maintenance includes: 1. Changing the engine oil, oil filter, and cleaning the air filter, as well as checking whether the generator belt and wiper blades are damaged. 2. Checking whether the levels of various fluids are normal. 3. Checking whether the tire pressure is normal and whether there is any uneven wear, bulging, or damage on the tires. 4. Inspecting the car chassis, including checking for any scratches on the brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, and CV joints. 5. Checking whether all switches and lights in the car are working properly.
After driving for over a decade, I've realized that the first maintenance doesn't necessarily have to be done at a 4S shop. The manufacturer's warranty terms do recommend authorized service centers to maintain service standards. However, legally, you're free to choose any repair shop as long as you use qualified oil and filters, and keep detailed records (like maintenance invoices and detailed logs), which won't void your warranty. In practice, I've tried independent repair shops a few times, and their work is professional while costing half as much. For example, an oil change might cost 500 yuan at a 4S shop, but only around 250 outside. Of course, 4S shops have the advantage of being more familiar with your car model, offering genuine parts, and providing more reassuring service. But if you're on a tight budget or short on time, going to a reputable independent shop is perfectly fine. The key is not to go for cheap, shady places that could harm your car and cause trouble. In short, it's entirely up to you, as long as the operation is standard.
From a money-saving expert's perspective, you can definitely avoid the high costs of first maintenance at 4S shops. I often calculate: 4S shops mark up both labor and parts, making an oil change plus inspection easily exceed 400 yuan; whereas nearby repair shops charge only 200-300 yuan. The key is ensuring the workshop is qualified, uses OEM or equivalent parts, and keeps all receipts. Manufacturer warranties won't be voided as long as you can prove compliant maintenance. Legally, consumers have choice - I spent the 200 yuan I saved last time on fuel. Sure, 4S shops sometimes offer extras like free inspections, but long-term savings are wiser. If you prioritize convenience or worry about your new car, visiting a 4S shop is fine; otherwise don't hesitate to try reputable independent shops.
