Is it necessary to go to a 4S store for post-purchase car maintenance?
2 Answers
New car maintenance does not necessarily require going to a 4S store. Here are the relevant details about car maintenance: 1. During the new car warranty period, it is mandatory to go to a 4S store for maintenance. The length of the warranty period varies by brand, which can be checked in the vehicle manual provided at the time of purchase or by directly inquiring at the 4S store. 2. After the warranty period expires, you can go to external repair shops, but make sure to choose a trustworthy one. 3. According to the "Motor Vehicle Maintenance Management Regulations" revised after 2017, it is clearly stipulated: manufacturers and 4S stores cannot refuse warranty services on the grounds that the vehicle was not maintained at an authorized service center, meaning car owners are free to choose their maintenance provider.
As a young person who just bought a car, I believe that 4S shops should be the first choice for post-purchase maintenance, especially during the warranty period, to avoid manufacturers making excuses not to honor the warranty. If any issues arise in the first few years and a claim is needed, 4S shops have complete records and won't argue, even though the costs are higher, it's worth the peace of mind. During my last maintenance visit, a minor issue was found and fixed for free on the spot, which an outside shop might have tried to avoid responsibility for. Of course, after the warranty expires, you can consider reliable outside shops to save some money, but only after checking their qualifications and tool standards. Overall, safety comes first, so it's better to leave it to the professional team in the early stages.
