Should Vehicle Maintenance Be Done at a 4S Shop or Outside?
2 Answers
Whether vehicle maintenance should be done at a 4S shop or outside depends on the situation. Here are the relevant details: Wheel alignment: It is best to have wheel alignment done at a 4S shop, as they retain the original factory data, ensuring the alignment is more accurate compared to that done at repair shops. Paint touch-up: The paint touch-up at a 4S shop is undoubtedly much better than that at outside repair shops. Although outside shops can also perform paint touch-ups, some car paint colors may not be available there. Oil filter: If your vehicle is already out of warranty, you can have the oil filter replaced at an outside repair shop when needed.
With over 20 years of driving experience, I've gained considerable insights into car maintenance. When the car was still under warranty, I firmly stuck to authorized 4S shops - after all, original equipment and expertise ensure warranty validity and prevent future claim issues. After the warranty expired, I experimented with smaller garages but encountered some unreliable mechanics who botched minor repairs. Eventually, I found a reputable independent repair shop offering 30% cheaper rates than 4S shops with faster service, though verifying their credentials beforehand was crucial. A car is a long-term companion - proper maintenance extends its lifespan and saves major repair costs. Never compromise quality for cheap options, and always maintain complete service records.
