Is it mandatory to service a new car after 6 months?
4 Answers
It is not mandatory to service the car after six months. Service cycle: If the car reaches the service cycle, it can be serviced around that time. Low mileage: If the service cycle is reached but the mileage is very low, you can choose to service the car after the cycle. Car maintenance: Also known as car servicing, it refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car. Content and purpose: Car maintenance mainly includes servicing the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, etc., aiming to keep the car clean, in normal technical condition, eliminate potential hazards, prevent failures, and extend the service life.
I bought a new car just six months ago, and the salesperson urged me to go for maintenance, saying it should be done every 6 months. At first, I thought it was no big deal—just driving less, right? But after checking the owner's manual, I realized it's to prevent issues from initial part break-in, like oil degradation or filter clogging. That maintenance cost me a few hundred bucks, and the technician said the first service for a new car is crucial—it can extend its lifespan. Later, I learned that skipping it might void the warranty—manufacturers set the 6-month interval not just as a suggestion but to avoid major failures. My friends all stick to the schedule, and it saves a lot of hassle. Overall, it depends on driving frequency, but if the manual specifies it, it's best to follow unless you drive very little. I've stuck to it, and my car runs smoothly to this day.
As an average car owner, I've been thinking about the 6-month maintenance for my new car—it's not absolutely mandatory, but the risks need to be weighed. The maintenance cost is a few hundred bucks, but skipping it could lead to issues like engine carbon buildup, which might cost thousands to fix and even void the warranty. I consulted a repair shop owner who said if the car is driven infrequently and at low speeds, the interval could be slightly extended. But 6 months is a general standard, especially for new cars with shorter oil change cycles. My previous car went 9 months without maintenance, and it ended up having starting issues—later diagnosed as a worn-out battery, which was maintenance-related. With my current new car, I plan to follow the manual. It costs money, but it gives me peace of mind. After all, a car is an asset, and investing a small amount to prevent major disasters makes sense.
I believe the maintenance schedule for a new car depends on its specific condition. Typically, a new car requires its first oil change and suspension check after 6 months due to component break-in. My experience with an older car taught me that skipping the initial maintenance led to transmission noise—caused by expired oil. New cars are similar; the 6-month interval ensures stable performance, with the manual recommending service based on whichever comes first: mileage or time. If you drive frequently and hit the mileage threshold, go for maintenance; otherwise, at least get an inspection. I've noticed most brands follow this approach—safe and ensures long-term drivability. Simply put, follow the manual, don't guess.
