Is it necessary to service the car at the 4S store where it was purchased?
2 Answers
It is not mandatory to service the car at the 4S store where it was purchased. Any 4S store nationwide that matches the brand of your vehicle model will suffice. Additionally, whether car maintenance should be done at a 4S store depends entirely on individual circumstances and is related to personal income and the condition of the vehicle. The Motor Vehicle Maintenance Management Regulations stipulate that manufacturers and 4S stores cannot refuse warranty services for vehicles on the grounds that maintenance was not performed at an officially authorized service center, meaning car owners are free to choose where to service their vehicles. Even if maintenance is not done at a 4S store, the warranty remains valid, thereby reducing maintenance costs. However, there are still certain risks in practice, such as the requirement to retain maintenance invoices, repair records, and certificates for replaced parts. Therefore, it is recommended to service new cars at 4S stores until the warranty period expires before switching to external auto repair shops.
As a car owner with over a decade of experience, I can confidently say that returning to the same 4S dealership for maintenance isn't mandatory. While 4S shops offer genuine parts and factory-trained technicians, which feel more reliable, their prices are noticeably higher. For new vehicles under warranty—especially within the first few years—I strongly recommend sticking with authorized dealers. Manufacturers often require complete maintenance records to honor warranty claims; otherwise, you risk claim denials if issues arise. Post-warranty, you're free to choose: reputable independent garages, chain service centers, or trusted referrals all work. Lately, I've tried several smaller shops and saved significantly without compromising service quality. The key is checking reviews thoroughly and picking licensed shops to avoid scams. Ultimately, maintenance aims to keep your car in top condition—there's no need to insist on the original dealership.
