Is it mandatory to service a car at a 4S dealership?

[Charlie]

Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of a vehicle, also known as car servicing. If a car is within its warranty period, it is essential to have it serviced at a 4S dealership. Here are the details: 1. The 4S dealership, representing the manufacturer, is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the vehicle during the warranty period. The engine oil, gear oil, and other lubricants used in 4S dealership maintenance are all specified by the manufacturer. The parts used are original factory-installed components, whose performance is unmatched by other parts. All parameters meet the requirements of the vehicle, ensuring the longest lifespan, lowest cost, best handling, and highest safety. If the car is serviced at other repair shops without the manufacturer-provided lubricants and parts, the quality of maintenance cannot be guaranteed. If issues arise due to lubricants, parts, or other reasons during the warranty period, the manufacturer will not be responsible. Therefore, it is crucial to service the car at the manufacturer-represented 4S dealership during the warranty period. 2. Typically, during car maintenance, the service personnel will conduct additional inspections based on the specific condition of the vehicle, such as checking and cleaning the engine-related systems, inspecting tire alignment, and examining various fastening components.

[Abigail]

I've been driving for over a decade, owned multiple cars, and have extensive maintenance experience. Car maintenance doesn't necessarily require going to a 4S shop; you can choose roadside repair shops, chain maintenance stores, or even change the oil yourself. During the warranty period, it's best for new cars to be serviced at 4S shops because they use original parts and keep records, avoiding the risk of voiding the warranty. But after the warranty expires, I often go to local small shops, saving a lot of money. The premise is that the mechanic is skilled and doesn't use inferior parts that could affect safety. Like last time I had maintenance, the roadside shop saved me 300 yuan, but I had to personally check the authenticity of the oil. Developing a habit of regular maintenance is key—wherever you go, the important thing is not to delay. Saving money while staying worry-free, that's the wisdom of an experienced driver.

[VonValeria]

When on a tight budget, skipping dealership maintenance can save you a significant amount of money. Authorized dealerships charge premium prices—for example, an oil change can cost six to seven hundred, while a reputable independent shop can do it for half the price. However, don’t just chase the lowest price; cheap service may mean subpar parts or inexperienced mechanics, leading to vehicle issues. During the warranty period, it’s advisable to stick with the dealership to avoid disputes. Once the warranty expires, you can choose more flexibly. I often compare multiple shops, check reviews in advance, and ensure parts are OEM or certified. Annual maintenance is a must, and it can be done anywhere, but quality control shouldn’t be compromised. Saving money isn’t the goal—vehicle safety and longevity come first. Just be smart about it.

[MacZoey]

From a professional perspective, car maintenance does not have to be fixed at 4S shops; the core lies in quality and safety. For new cars under warranty, going to 4S shops is advisable as they have original parts and record systems to protect the owner's rights. Later on, choosing professional repair shops is fine, with the technician's capability being the most critical. Substandard parts may amplify minor issues, affecting brakes or the engine. My suggestion is to select a service location based on the car's condition: simple maintenance like replacing filters can be done at small shops, while complex systems are better handled by larger, more reliable shops. Remember, maintenance isn't just about changing oil; it also includes checking tires and wiring, which are crucial for driving safety. With proper planning, you can balance economy and reliability.