Is there a charge for fault detection at 4S stores?
3 Answers
If the car is under warranty, 4S stores generally do not charge for fault detection; if it is not under warranty, a fee will be charged. Below is a detailed introduction to automobile 4S stores: 1. Sales and After-sales Service: 4S stores can be divided into sales and after-sales service. Sales can be further categorized into new car sales, used car sales, large customer sales, and beauty and accessory sales. After-sales service includes daily maintenance, insurance claim settlements, manufacturer warranty claims, and car insurance sales. 2. Brand Dealerships: As automobile brand dealerships, 4S stores must adhere to the requirements of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). This includes uniform store design, standardized management, consistent service standards, unified automobile brand culture, and synchronized market activity themes. Automobile brand manufacturers also assess the operational conditions of 4S stores, as they represent the brand culture and values, serving as the direct channel for users to interact with the automobile brand.
I think most of the time, fault diagnosis at 4S shops comes with a charge because they use professional equipment, and the technicians' working hours need to be paid for. Having driven for over twenty years, I always ask about the charges before proceeding. Generally, the diagnosis fee ranges from a few hundred to over a thousand, depending on the complexity. Of course, for new cars under warranty, diagnosis might be free, especially when the salesperson kindly offers a complimentary check-up right after purchase. But once the warranty expires or if the issue is more serious, you'll have to pay out of pocket. Once, I had a transmission noise issue, and the diagnosis alone cost over 500 yuan, only to find out it was a minor problem that was much cheaper to fix. So, I recommend calling ahead to confirm the charges or waiting for free promotional events at the shop—saving money wherever possible. Remember, timely diagnosis can prevent major troubles; don't risk an accident just to save a few bucks.
Paying for fault diagnostics at 4S shops is common practice—after all, they have advanced scanners and expert teams, and the costs are justified. I've used their services multiple times and noticed pricing varies between shops: basic scans start around 300 RMB, while complex diagnostics can exceed 1,000. Don't panic, though—some cases are free, like during warranty coverage or right after maintenance when advisors often include complimentary checks. My advice? Build rapport during routine servicing by asking questions—it might score you discounts. Honestly, the fee makes sense; professional scans uncover hidden risks that DIY guesses can't match, potentially preventing accidents. Bottom line: always check the shop's website or hotline for policies beforehand to avoid wasted trips, balancing safety and budget smartly.
