Is it mandatory to service new cars at 4S dealerships?
2 Answers
New cars are not required to be serviced at 4S dealerships; they can also be serviced at repair shops. Below is relevant information about car maintenance: 1. Brake fluid maintenance: The maintenance cycle for brake fluid is 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. Brake fluid is fundamental to ensuring the braking system functions properly, so the requirements are quite stringent. Most cars today use DOT4-grade brake fluid. Different grades of brake fluid should not be mixed. 2. Engine oil maintenance: If the car engine is the heart of the car, then engine oil is the lifeblood of the car. Generally, the maintenance interval for most cars is 5,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first (e.g., Hyundai, Toyota). Some vehicles have a maintenance interval of 10,000 kilometers or one year, whichever comes first (e.g., BMW, Mercedes-Benz), and others may have intervals of up to 15,000 kilometers (e.g., Peugeot). It is best to refer to the maintenance manual for specific maintenance intervals and durations.
New car maintenance doesn't necessarily have to be done at a 4S shop. I have personal experience with this. When buying a new car, salespeople often claim that maintenance must be done at their facility to keep the warranty valid, but the law supports the owner's right to choose. As long as you go to a legitimate repair shop, use genuine or certified parts, and keep complete records—such as invoices, maintenance checklists, and mechanic signatures—manufacturers usually still honor the warranty. The advantages of 4S shops include higher authenticity rates for parts and a professional environment, making them a worry-free option for those unfamiliar with cars. However, their prices are higher, with labor costs often doubled. I personally frequent independent shops, saving money to buy insurance, but the key is choosing reliable vendors for regular inspections. During the warranty period, I recommend checking the owner's manual monthly to confirm the terms, so you don't lose big over small savings. Once the warranty expires, you're free to choose where to go.
