Is the first maintenance free?

[Laurie]

Most car models are free. Here are the relevant details: 1. Introduction: Generally, the first maintenance for vehicles is either six months or 5,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Some manufacturers may recommend maintenance at 2,000-3,000 kilometers. You can check the maintenance manual for confirmation and call to schedule an appointment at the nearest authorized 4S service center for your car model. 2. Note: The first maintenance must be done at an authorized 4S service center. All car manufacturers stipulate that only vehicles with their first maintenance performed at a 4S service center are eligible for the manufacturer's warranty. The first maintenance does not necessarily have to be done at the dealership where you purchased the car; it can also be performed at any 4S service center that is convenient for you. All 4S service centers are connected nationwide, and the car manufacturer will recognize the first maintenance performed at any authorized center.

[WyattLynn]

The free first service indeed depends on the manufacturer's policy. I've handled this for a friend before. Mainstream brands like Toyota and Honda usually provide free engine oil and filter replacement for the first service, but air filter cleaning is at your own expense. Imported cars like BMW and Mercedes are more generous, even covering the air filter. Here's the key point: the free service voucher is on that page in the maintenance manual – don't forget to bring it! If some roadside repair shop offers you a free first service, be extra cautious and verify if it's an authorized shop cooperating with the manufacturer. Also, don't delay the first service mileage too long, as dealerships won't honor it if it's overdue.

[DelElaina]

Can I get my first car service for free? Let me share some experience. Most mainstream brands waive the basic fees, but you need to pay attention to details: Are they using semi-synthetic or mineral oil? Does the free service include chassis inspection? My neighbor got tricked once - after the free first service, they asked for extra payment to replace the cabin air filter. Actually, the maintenance manual clearly states that labor costs are completely free, while consumables are divided into free and paid categories. Remember not to exceed the 6-month or 5,000 km service interval, otherwise you'll have to pay out of pocket. By the way, some dealerships might throw in extra windshield washer fluid or wiper blades - this really depends on how well you negotiate with the salesperson.

[ElliotFitz]

The first free maintenance is usually included in the purchase contract. When I bought a Japanese car three years ago, they provided free engine oil and oil filter. However, policies vary greatly among second-tier brands—some only waive labor costs. The key is to check the stamped date on the free service coupon in the maintenance manual and avoid being persuaded by sales to service early. Also, confirm the engine oil specification—upgrading to full synthetic requires extra payment. Some brands allow delaying the first maintenance until 10,000 kilometers.

[LaGenevieve]

I just helped my cousin with his new car's first maintenance. Discovered three key rules: 1) Although German cars offer free first maintenance, they have strict requirements - mileage cannot exceed 10% of the recommended interval. 2) The free oil provided is usually the most basic grade, and upgrading requires paying the price difference. 3) Skipping the first maintenance will affect warranty claims. Always supervise the technician during service - last time the repair shop secretly skipped tire rotation. Finally, remember to get the first maintenance receipt stamped, as it's crucial documentation when selling the car later.