Should I go for maintenance when the first service date arrives but the mileage hasn't been reached?
3 Answers
You should go for maintenance when the first service date arrives even if the mileage hasn't been reached. The reason is that the engine oil has a usage period. The first service refers to the first maintenance after the car has been driven, and its inspection items include: 1. Check the car's coolant level; 2. Check the brake and clutch fluid level; 3. Check the steering oil tank oil level and whether there is oil leakage at each oil pipe interface; 4. Check the battery fluid level and glass cleaner tank level; 5. Check the tightness and aging of the generator, air conditioner, water pump, and power steering pump belts. The functions of the car's first service are: 1. Ensure the vehicle is in good performance condition; 2. Effectively improve the vehicle's efficiency and reduce the consumption of parts and tires; 3. Increase driving safety; 4. Avoid vehicle failures; 5. Reduce noise and environmental pollution; 6. Keep the vehicle's appearance clean and prevent vehicle damage.
I remember encountering this with my first car too—the dealership kept urging me to do the first maintenance. Actually, for a new car’s first service, you need to watch two indicators: time or mileage, whichever comes first. You see, even if the engine oil is just sitting there unused after opening, it will oxidize and degrade after six months. Especially with today’s full synthetic oils, prolonged time weakens the oil film’s protective strength for new engines. I suggest you don’t delay—set aside a weekend to get it done, particularly since high summer temperatures accelerate oil breakdown. After the first service, remember to ask the mechanic to check the chassis bolts and tire pressure as well, since these areas tend to loosen during the break-in period of a new car.
Seriously, don't risk waiting for the mileage. My neighbor went three months over the limit, and when the transmission started leaking oil for warranty repair, the manufacturer outright refused to cover it. Metal shavings from the break-in period of new engine components mix with the oil, and over time, they can wear down the cylinder walls. Last time during maintenance, I saw a car that was overdue for service—the drained oil was sludge-like, and the filter was half clogged. Do the math: which is more cost-effective, a few hundred bucks for an oil change or tens of thousands for an engine overhaul? Nowadays, you can even get a discount by booking maintenance on your phone, and you can get it done in two hours during your lunch break.
