Is the first maintenance of a new car free?
4 Answers
Is the first maintenance of a new car free? The first maintenance is free, and it is performed when the car has traveled approximately 5,000 kilometers. It refers to the first maintenance after the vehicle has been driven. The maintenance items include: 1. Changing the engine oil, oil filter, air conditioning filter, and air filter; 2. Checking the levels of coolant, battery fluid, and windshield washer fluid; 3. Checking the brake and clutch fluid levels and the power steering fluid level; 4. Inspecting all oil pipe interfaces in the system for leaks; 5. Checking the front and rear lights; 6. Checking tire pressure and wear, and tightening screws according to the specified torque. The precautions for the first car maintenance are: 1. Make an appointment with the 4S store in advance; 2. Bring the vehicle license and maintenance manual.
When I bought a new car before, the sales consultant directly told me that the first maintenance was free, including oil changes, checking filters, and so on. This is basically a standard practice in the automotive industry, especially for big brands like Toyota or Honda, which often use free first maintenance to attract customers. I remember the first time I drove to the 4S store, the whole process was quite smooth, and the service staff were very friendly. However, it's important to note that the free service might come with conditions, such as completing it within a specified period, usually within six months of purchase or after driving 5,000 kilometers. If you exceed this period, you'll have to pay out of pocket. So don't delay too long—the free service saves a lot of money, and the first maintenance is crucial for breaking in a new car, helping to prevent future issues. I recommend bringing the maintenance manual when picking up the car to confirm everything and avoid unexpected disputes. In short, free first maintenance is the norm in most cases, but to be safe, make sure to read the contract carefully before signing.
It's quite common for new cars to come with a free first service. I often mention this when helping friends with their vehicle issues. Typically, dealers include the cost of the first service when selling the car as part of a promotion, aiming to build customer loyalty. The specific services usually cover basic maintenance like oil changes, brake inspections, and tire checks, with the costs covered by the manufacturer or dealership. However, there are exceptions—luxury cars might have additional charges, or small independent shops may not offer it. It's best to confirm the free service scope verbally or in writing before purchase to avoid unexpected costs. Also, completing the first service within the first few months is crucial—I've seen people miss it and end up paying hundreds out of pocket. From a safety perspective, the first service ensures the new car's performance remains stable, so it's advisable not to skip it to save money.
Having driven new cars for years, I've found that free first maintenance is pretty much standard in my experience. Salespeople often proactively mention covering the first service—like when I got my last Ford, they directly signed an agreement for free service. The process is straightforward: an oil change and comprehensive inspection, worth a few hundred yuan. But free isn't guaranteed—exceptions include some refurbished used cars or promotional deals. It's best to clarify at delivery; don't assume it's automatic. Keeping up with maintenance also extends your car's lifespan.
