Is it necessary to go to a 4S dealership for car maintenance?
3 Answers
New cars must be serviced at a 4S dealership during the warranty period; after the warranty period expires, it is not mandatory to go to a 4S dealership, but it is essential to choose a reliable and trustworthy repair shop. Here are the detailed explanations: 1. New cars must be serviced at a 4S dealership because manufacturers provide a warranty period for new vehicles. If any quality issues arise during this period, they will be repaired for free. 2. If the vehicle is not serviced at a 4S dealership as required by the manufacturer, the warranty will become void. Additionally, the biggest advantages of servicing at a 4S dealership are professionalism, reliability, and comprehensive vehicle information records. The equipment is also more complete and professional, the quality of parts is guaranteed, and the maintenance technicians are specially trained, so you can rest assured about their technical skills. 3. After the warranty period expires, if you find 4S dealerships too expensive, you can choose to go to a repair shop or DIY. Repair shops generally do not have significant issues with workmanship, and if it is a reputable auto repair shop, the quality and reputation are also guaranteed. However, due to lower production costs in some aspects, the prices tend to be cheaper.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have accumulated some experience. When I first bought a car, I always took it to the 4S shop for maintenance, thinking their equipment was comprehensive and reliable, but the costs were outrageously high—even a minor service could cost over a thousand yuan. Later, I found some well-reputed private repair shops where oil and filter changes were just as professional, but the expenses were cut by more than half. However, there are a few things to keep in mind: if your car is still under warranty in the first few years, skipping the 4S shop might mean losing free repair rights; but for older cars or routine maintenance, independent shops can be more cost-effective. In short, don’t blindly assume 4S shops are always the best—consider your financial situation and your car’s condition to make flexible choices. The money saved can be put to better use elsewhere. I often recommend this approach to new drivers, as it can save them around a thousand yuan a year on average.
I usually pay close attention to car maintenance details. Getting serviced at a 4S dealership does have significant advantages—they use genuine tools and parts, and their diagnostics are precise and efficient, which is ideal for complex systems like engines or transmissions. However, the reality is that their prices are quite steep. Last time I replaced an air filter at a 4S shop, it cost me 500, while a local garage charged only 200. For routine maintenance like car washes or bulb replacements, I don’t think it’s necessary to insist on a 4S shop; finding a locally certified repair shop can offer equally fast and good service. Another factor is time—appointments at 4S shops often involve long waits, sometimes wasting half a day, whereas independent shops are more flexible. Balancing these factors, I recommend making decisions based on actual needs rather than blindly following trends.
