Is it necessary to go to the 4S store where the car was purchased for maintenance?
3 Answers
Maintaining a car does not necessarily require going to the 4S store where it was purchased; you can choose an auto repair shop instead. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing parts related to the vehicle. Car maintenance items include: 1. Replacing engine oil, oil filter, air filter, and fuel filter; 2. Inspecting the body and tires; 3. Checking the braking system; 4. Inspecting the chassis for damage; 5. Checking the fluid levels. The benefits of car maintenance are: 1. Ensuring the vehicle's optimal performance; 2. Improving driving safety; 3. Reducing engine noise; 4. Extending the vehicle's lifespan.
I remember when I bought my first car a few years ago, I thought maintenance had to be done at the official 4S dealership. Every time I went, I'd wait half a day and the bill always ended up being a few hundred dollars more. Later, chatting with some fellow car owners, I realized that for new cars within the warranty period, it's indeed recommended to go to the 4S shop for maintenance because the official records can help with warranty claims—like when there's an engine issue, it's easier to handle. After the warranty expired, I tried roadside chain stores, like those quick service centers. The prices were about half as much, appointments were flexible, and it saved time and effort. The key is not to go for the cheapest option at unqualified shops—make sure they use original or equivalent parts and keep all receipts just in case. Overall, car owners' freedom of choice is legally protected. You can choose any place as long as the maintenance meets the manual's standards—don't get fooled by 4S shop marketing.
Having driven for over a decade, from old cars to new ones, I've learned many lessons about choosing maintenance locations. During the new car phase, sticking to authorized 4S shops is wise because they possess original factory data and specialized tools, ensuring seamless warranty-period services and easier accountability if faults occur. However, I've found that after the warranty expires, there's no need to rigidly adhere to 4S shops. Independent roadside shops are often cheaper and more efficient—for instance, the shop run by my mechanic friend charges 30% less labor and uses reliable aftermarket parts. The key is balancing cost-effectiveness with service reliability—don’t risk car problems by cutting corners at shady shops, as the losses could far outweigh the savings. Make it a habit to regularly check the car manual and personally inspect part quality during maintenance. This approach protects your car, saves hassle, and ensures peace of mind on the road.
