Is it necessary to go to a 4S shop for car maintenance?
3 Answers
Car maintenance does not necessarily have to be done at a 4S shop. It can be performed at any repair shop, and it will not have any impact on the normal maintenance of the vehicle. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car. The maintenance items for a car include: 1. Replacing engine oil, oil filter, air filter, cabin air filter, fuel filter, transmission fluid, and engine belt; 2. Checking spark plugs, tires, and braking system; 3. Cleaning the throttle body and fuel injectors; 4. Adding brake fluid.
I believe car maintenance doesn't necessarily have to be done at 4S shops—it depends on your vehicle's condition and needs. If your car is still under warranty, like a new car, 4S shops have advantages: they use genuine parts, offer standardized services, and can avoid warranty disputes. Having driven for over a decade, I initially frequented 4S shops—costs were higher, but it was hassle-free, with complete records for oil changes and filter replacements, which added value when reselling. After the warranty expires, you can explore other options, such as chain quick-service shops or reputable independent garages, often 30% cheaper, and you can even bring your own parts and only pay for labor. The key is sticking to the maintenance schedule without delay, regularly checking the brake system, tire pressure, etc. Safety always comes first—don’t skimp on preventive maintenance to save money. In short, stay flexible in your choices and don’t get tied to one shop.
Honestly, there's no need to insist on dealership service centers! As a car enthusiast who loves tinkering, frequent visits to 4S shops are too costly and time-consuming. Third-party repair shops offer better value – an oil change might save you 200 yuan, and can even be done at roadside garages. The key is finding certified workshops and keeping receipts for consumer protection. My car's been running for five years with mostly external maintenance, still performing well, and the savings allowed me to upgrade the audio system. Maintenance is essentially about keeping your car healthy, from small jobs like refilling windshield fluid to major services like brake disc replacement – all can be done at reliable third-party shops. However, for computer diagnostics or alternator issues, it's better to go somewhere more professional. Remember to verify part quality, don't just chase cheap options blindly. Consult experienced drivers for recommendations to save both money and hassle.
