Is There a Time Limit for the First Car Maintenance?
2 Answers
The first car maintenance has certain standards in terms of time or mileage, whichever comes first. If you drive less frequently and the time limit is reached first, then the time limit must be adhered to. Exceeding the time limit may result in the dealership considering the warranty void, and you won't be able to enjoy the car's warranty. Generally, the first maintenance mileage ranges from 2,500 to 7,500 kilometers, and the time limit is six months, whichever comes first. First Maintenance Tips: 1. Know Your Car: Before the first maintenance, fully understand if your car has any other issues or concerns and note them down. During the maintenance registration, inform the dealership about these items that need to be checked. 2. Understand the Maintenance Content: Before the maintenance, review the user manual to get an idea of the general content of this maintenance and any items that may require additional payment. 3. Schedule an Appointment: A few days before the maintenance, call the dealership to schedule a maintenance time. 4. Prepare Materials: For the maintenance, prepare the user manual (must bring), driver's license, digital camera, or a phone with a camera (preferably bring these, as they may be useful). 5. Bring a Friend: It's best to bring an experienced driver or at least a relative or friend during the first maintenance for assistance. 6. Organize Valuables in the Car: Before the maintenance, organize the items in your car. It's best to keep small valuables at home or carry them with you, such as mobile phones, laptops, Bluetooth headphones, etc., to prevent loss. 7. Avoid Being Misled: During the maintenance registration, don't be misled by the dealership's receptionist; stick to the free items only. 8. Follow the Process: After entering the maintenance workshop, it's best to follow the process personally. This way, you can observe the entire maintenance process, especially to monitor the materials used and the workers' attitude. Following the process also allows you to learn some simple repair techniques and understand your car's basic structure, which is very practical for handling emergencies on the road in the future. 9. Address Other Issues: After the regular maintenance is completed, urge the maintenance technician to address any other issues you've noticed beforehand. Ensure that any necessary parts are replaced and not just temporarily fixed, as this is within the free warranty period. After the warranty period, you'll have to pay for these yourself.
Everyone who buys a car knows that the first service should not be delayed for too long. Manufacturers usually require it to be done within three months or after driving 5,000 kilometers. I once forgot about this, and ended up with minor engine issues that were troublesome to repair. New cars accumulate debris during initial operation, and early maintenance can clear them out, extending the vehicle's lifespan. Remember to check the engine oil and filter—these are the core of maintenance. Exceeding the time limit may also affect your car's warranty; if the engine has issues, the dealer won't repair it for free. It's best to plan your schedule right after picking up the car, and don't wait until the warning light comes on. Developing a habit of regular maintenance is crucial for your car's health.
