Is it necessary to have maintenance done at a 4S shop?
2 Answers
It is not mandatory to have your vehicle maintained at a 4S shop. You can take your vehicle to any repair shop for regular maintenance, which will not affect the normal upkeep of the vehicle. However, having maintenance done at a 4S shop can slightly improve the resale value of the vehicle when it is sold. Below is some information about the first maintenance: 1. The requirement for the first maintenance is to have it done at a 4S shop either by the specified mileage or within the specified time. 2. For maintenance, you need to bring the vehicle's registration certificate and the owner's manual, as the maintenance slip is included in the manual. 3. After completing the maintenance, the service personnel at the 4S shop will remove the maintenance slip and report it to the manufacturer to claim the cost, as the first maintenance fee is covered by the manufacturer.
Having driven for over a decade, I've found that maintenance at 4S shops isn't mandatory. My car is an older model, long out of warranty, so I usually get it serviced at a small repair shop near my neighborhood, which costs half the price of a 4S shop. The mechanics there are decent—they use aftermarket parts that, while not OEM, are safe after inspection. The savings allow me to budget more for fuel or trips. For new cars under warranty, I'd recommend sticking with 4S shops to avoid voiding coverage and facing pricier repairs. But overall, opting for independent shops saves a lot of money and avoids long waits, making it ideal for budget-conscious owners like me. Don't stress too much about quality—just ask friends for reliable mechanic recommendations.
