Is it necessary to go to a 4S store for new car maintenance?
3 Answers
New car maintenance does not necessarily have to be done at a 4S store. Car owners can freely choose where to maintain their vehicles. The Motor Vehicle Maintenance Management Regulations stipulate that manufacturers and 4S stores cannot refuse to provide warranty services for vehicles on the grounds that maintenance was not performed at an officially authorized store. In other words, car owners are free to choose their repair locations. Except for automobile manufacturers fulfilling their responsibilities for defective vehicle recalls and the three-guarantee policy for vehicle quality, no individual or entity may force or covertly force the designation of a maintenance provider. Car maintenance refers to the regular preventive work of inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle, also known as car servicing.
When I first got my new car, I always had it serviced at the 4S shop. Now it has reached 50,000 kilometers. It's best to service your car at the 4S shop during the warranty period to avoid any issues with subsequent claims. The 4S shop maintains complete repair records and uses genuine parts, which is more reassuring. Although the prices are a bit higher, the mechanics are familiar with the model and the inspections are more thorough, covering basic items like fluid changes and chassis checks. Some roadside shops may be cheaper, but the parts they use are of unknown origin, and their operational standards are not as strict. After the warranty period, I started choosing reliable repair shops myself, saving about 30% on costs. I recommend sticking with the 4S shop for the first three years for peace of mind and considering other options later.
Whether to go to a 4S shop for new car maintenance depends on two aspects. First, the condition of the vehicle itself. Luxury cars or models with turbocharging are recommended to be maintained at 4S shops, as precision components require professional equipment for inspection; ordinary family cars are not an absolute must. Second, economic considerations. A single minor maintenance at a 4S shop costs about 300-400 yuan more, but the complimentary vehicle inspection is worth the price difference. Last time I changed the oil at a regular repair shop, I found the air filter wasn't installed properly and had to redo it. Nowadays, booking maintenance via mobile apps is quite convenient, and 4S shops often have point-based discount activities, making the price difference not that significant. Of course, if you know cars well or have a trusted repair shop, there's no need to insist on 4S shops after the warranty period.
