Is the first maintenance of a car free?
4 Answers
The first maintenance of a car is not free nationwide. The first maintenance is a method to attract customers. Offering too many cash discounts or too many gift packages to consumers will affect profits, while offering the first maintenance can not only attract customers but also maximize profits. Conditions for the first maintenance: The free first maintenance is conditional. For example, the engine oil and filter box are indeed free, but they are low-grade engine oil. If you want to upgrade to high-grade engine oil, you need to pay the price difference. In addition, some parts such as air filters and even miscellaneous services may require the car owner to pay out of pocket. Items for the first maintenance: Replace engine oil and oil filter, clean the air filter; check whether the coolant level of the car is in a normal state; check whether the car's brakes and chassis parts are scratched; check whether the power steering fluid level is normal and whether there is any oil leakage at each oil pipe interface; check the aging and tightness of the generator, air conditioner, water pump, and belt; check the tire pressure and wear condition. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car, also known as car servicing.
Last time I was considering buying a car, I pondered whether the first maintenance for a small car is free, which mainly depends on the brand and the purchase agreement. Most mainstream car brands like Toyota and Honda usually offer free first maintenance as a promotional measure, especially for new cars under warranty. However, some niche brands or imported cars may charge for it, with prices ranging from a few hundred yuan. The first maintenance is typically done at 5,000 kilometers or six months, including basic services like oil changes and brake inspections, which are crucial for vehicle break-in and longevity. It's advisable to confirm the free details with the salesperson when picking up the car and keep the warranty booklet for reference. From my personal experience, free maintenance can save some money, but don’t just focus on it being free—ensuring timely maintenance is more important, as neglect could lead to major repairs later on.
As a new car owner, I asked the salesperson about the first service being free during my first week of ownership. He said it's generally free, but must be done at designated dealerships and requires presenting the purchase contract as proof. However, not all vehicles qualify—my friend who chose a budget model ended up paying over 200 for the first service. So always check the promotional materials carefully and clarify terms before purchasing. Free first services typically occur after six months or 5,000 km, covering basic but essential maintenance like oil changes and tire inspections to help detect issues early. Remember, even if not free, don't delay—the first service significantly benefits driving safety.
Having worked in car repair for ten years, I've noticed that whether the first service is free or not is commonly seen in new car warranties. Japanese brands like Mazda and Nissan often offer free first services, which involve basic maintenance. However, European and American brands may charge a fee, though it's usually not high, mainly covering oil and filter changes. A key reminder for car owners: check the vehicle manual or the manufacturer's app to confirm. Never skip the first service, as it helps identify assembly defects early and prevents major issues. From a cost-saving perspective, schedule promptly if it's free; if not, look for promotional offers.
