Is it mandatory to service the car at a 4S shop during the warranty period?
2 Answers
It is not mandatory to service the car at a 4S shop during the warranty period. According to the automobile three-guarantee policy, during the warranty period, consumers must have their cars serviced at a 4S shop authorized by the manufacturer to enjoy the three-guarantee policy. If the car is serviced elsewhere, the owner needs to provide relevant material proofs and maintenance certificates for the manufacturer to provide warranty services. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car, also known as car servicing. Modern car maintenance mainly includes the maintenance of the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, cooling system, fuel system, power steering system, etc. The purpose of car maintenance is to keep the car clean and tidy, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate hidden dangers, prevent failures, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life.
I've come across many friends who struggle with this issue during warranty period maintenance. In fact, it's not absolutely necessary to have maintenance done at a 4S shop, but you need to be careful. According to automakers' regulations, as long as original or equivalent quality parts are used for maintenance and all repair records and invoices are kept, regular external repair shops are also acceptable. For example, when changing engine oil or filters, if you choose a reliable place and avoid improper operations, it won't affect the warranty. However, if improper maintenance causes vehicle problems, such as engine damage from counterfeit parts, the manufacturer may refuse warranty coverage. I recommend that novice or conservative car owners prioritize 4S shops during the warranty period—they have data sharing systems, making things much more worry-free. Regular inspections of key components can also help detect potential issues early, keeping the car running smoother.
