Is the first car maintenance mandatory after three months?
3 Answers
New cars must undergo their first maintenance. It doesn't necessarily have to be after three months; the timing depends on the vehicle model and should follow the manufacturer's specified time or mileage. Purpose of maintenance: Through maintenance, the tightness of parts, their fitting clearance, and lubrication conditions can be improved, enhancing the vehicle's power, fuel efficiency, and reliability, thereby extending its service life. Before the first maintenance, pay attention to the following points: Make an appointment in advance: It's best to schedule an appointment with the 4S store beforehand. Otherwise, you might encounter situations where there are no available service bays or long waiting times. Bring necessary documents: When going for the first maintenance, bring essential items such as the maintenance manual and vehicle registration. If unsure about what documents to bring, make sure to ask during the appointment. Record issues promptly: If you encounter any faults or have questions while driving, note them down. Inform the staff during the first maintenance registration so the technician can check all issues during the maintenance.
I've driven several cars before and noticed many novice car owners have misconceptions about the first maintenance timing, thinking all vehicles must strictly go at three months. In reality, it primarily depends on the vehicle manual. From my own experience, most brands recommend the first service at three months or 5,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. The reason is simple: new car engines produce metal shavings during the break-in period, and timely oil changes protect engine longevity. But if you drive infrequently, say only a couple thousand kilometers over several months, a slight delay isn’t a big issue as long as it stays within the manual’s range. The key is not to rigidly apply this rule, or you might waste money and make unnecessary trips. I suggest owners develop the habit of checking their manuals or directly consulting the dealership to avoid engine issues affecting warranty coverage.
As a safety-conscious person, I take the first maintenance very seriously. A car is like a family member to me, and I always want to ensure it runs smoothly. The three-month mark for the first maintenance isn't set in stone, but it's highly valuable as a reference: new engines require careful maintenance during the break-in period, and oil changes with inspections can prevent small issues from escalating. Delaying it for too long may lead to oil degradation or component wear, increasing the risk of malfunctions. I've seen friends who postponed their first maintenance by several months end up with louder engine noises and unnecessary repair costs. The manual usually specifies whether time or mileage takes priority, so it's best to follow the recommendations. If you frequently drive long distances, go earlier; for urban short trips, you can delay slightly, but always prioritize safety and avoid taking risks.
