Maintenance at 4S Shop or Outside?
2 Answers
It mainly depends on whether the car owner pursues cost-effectiveness or stability. Maintenance outside is cheaper but requires a trustworthy place, while 4S shops are more expensive but offer greater peace of mind. It is recommended to perform maintenance at a 4S shop during the warranty period, but strictly follow the maintenance manual rather than what the service advisor suggests. This way, you neither lose the original warranty nor spend much more money. Nowadays, many 4S shops have lowered their prices to win back customers and offer various package deals. Below is relevant information: 1. Routine maintenance refers to daily upkeep, including pre-drive, during-drive, and post-drive checks, performed by the driver. The main tasks involve cleaning, replenishing, and safety inspections, which are essential for keeping the vehicle in good working condition. 2. Primary maintenance is performed by professional repair shops. In addition to routine maintenance tasks, it mainly includes cleaning, lubrication, tightening, and inspection of safety components such as brakes and controls. Secondary maintenance, also performed by professional repair shops, goes beyond primary maintenance and focuses on inspection, adjustment, tire disassembly, and tire rotation.
I used to always wonder where to get more cost-effective maintenance, until I discovered that small independent shops are indeed cheaper—like saving hundreds on an oil change. But it takes time to find a reliable place. I remember once opting for a cheap roadside shop, only to hear strange noises from my car within days. A checkup revealed they used substandard oil, and the repair costs ended up being much higher. Since then, I’ve learned to buy genuine parts myself and bring them to a mechanic, or choose reputable independent garages. If your car is still under warranty, getting maintenance outside may cause trouble, so it’s best to stick with the dealership for peace of mind. Overall, if you’re on a tight budget, independent shops are the way to go—but be sure to pick one with skilled technicians to avoid small savings turning into big losses. Always ask friends for recommendations and build trust over time—it’s the best way to save money and stay worry-free.
