Should You Add New Car Protection Agent During the First Maintenance?

[Jacob]

It is not necessary to add, but adding it provides better protection for the engine. The main functions of the protection agent are anti-wear, lubrication, noise reduction, power enhancement, and fuel savings. Due to its excellent lubrication properties, wear is minimized, improving the working environment of metal components in the engine and ensuring smoother operation, which enhances power output and saves fuel. Additional details are as follows: When performing maintenance at a 4S shop, follow the guidelines in the manual, such as changing gear oil during the second maintenance. If maintenance is not performed according to the guidelines, the 4S shop may refuse warranty coverage if certain issues arise. However, some components, such as air filters and cabin air filters, should be replaced based on specific conditions. Generally, the replacement intervals for cabin air filters, engine air filters, and fuel filters are around 8,000–10,000 kilometers, but this can vary depending on the driving environment. If the environment has high humidity-dryness contrast, prolonged dry climate, or heavy dust, replacement may be required earlier. If the mileage is low or the driving conditions are excellent, replacement may not be necessary.

[StWyatt]

As someone who pays close attention to automotive details, I don't think it's necessary to add engine protectant during the first maintenance. New car engines come factory-filled with high-quality lubricating oil that already contains anti-wear additives and protective components specifically designed to help the engine smoothly complete its break-in period. Adding extra protectant might actually disrupt the oil's chemical balance, leading to sludge buildup or increased fuel consumption - just like the case I saw at the dealership last time where a customer reported louder engine noise after adding it. More importantly, the first maintenance is usually free, and dealers mostly promote this to make money - charging several hundred yuan for something with little actual benefit. I recommend simply using the manufacturer-recommended oil during the oil change. It saves money, avoids hassle, and prevents potential risks. The key to proper engine break-in is smooth driving - avoid aggressive acceleration. Protecting your engine through proper driving habits is more reliable than adding supplements.

[DiCarmen]

From a cost-saving perspective, I genuinely believe that spending money on protective additives during a new car's first maintenance is unnecessary. New cars already come with built-in rustproofing and anti-wear treatments, and the lubricating oil is optimized as well. Adding protective additives is purely superfluous. Many 4S shops love pushing this service, often charging you dozens or even hundreds of yuan, but there's no scientific basis for it. A friend of mine tried it and saw zero effect—just wasted money. The core of the first maintenance is the free oil change and vehicle inspection; focus on getting these done properly. The money saved can be used to buy better gear or fuel up, which is far more practical. When maintaining a new car, be meticulous with your budget—reject all extra services. Over time, you'll realize you've saved a significant amount. Don’t fall for sales pitches; sticking to the manual is the safest bet.

[PhoebeFitz]

I often tell people not to bother with protectants during the first maintenance—it's completely unnecessary. The factory-fill oil in new car engines undergoes rigorous testing and comes with built-in protection functions. Adding additives may actually interfere with normal operation. If the product quality is poor, it could even clog the filters. Simply go for the free service—oil change and routine inspection—that's enough. The manual usually doesn't mention this, but trust me on this one.