Should You Still Go to a 4S Shop for Repairs After the Car Warranty Expires?
2 Answers
You don't need to go to a 4S shop for repairs after the car warranty expires. However, the first maintenance must be done at a 4S shop. If you skip the first maintenance at a 4S shop, it will be considered as voluntarily waiving the warranty. Generally, vehicles are warranted for three years or 100,000 kilometers, some for four years or 100,000 kilometers, or even longer. Therefore, within these three or four years, visiting the 4S shop two or three times should suffice. Typically, the engine and transmission won't fail easily, but if they do, as long as you've had maintenance at the 4S shop a few times, they will still be covered under warranty. Below are some notes regarding car warranties: 1. First maintenance of the vehicle: The first maintenance for a new car is crucial. Usually, the 4S shop will clearly inform you about the time and mileage for the first maintenance and repeatedly remind you to do it. Otherwise, you won't enjoy the free first maintenance benefit, and it will affect future maintenance services. Therefore, make sure to complete the first maintenance properly. 2. Mileage and time for maintenance: Generally, the next maintenance time or mileage will be clearly noted in the maintenance manual by the 4S shop. Whichever comes first will be the benchmark. Don't just look at the time. For example, if the second maintenance is at 6,000 kilometers or three months, and you've already driven 6,000 kilometers in one month, then you should go for maintenance immediately without waiting for three months. Otherwise, if any issues arise with the vehicle, the 4S shop may refuse responsibility on the grounds of warranty expiration. 3. Do not casually choose other repair shops for vehicle maintenance: If the vehicle is still under warranty, you must go to a 4S shop for maintenance. You need to use vehicle-specific engine oil, oil filters, etc. Otherwise, if problems occur, the 4S shop will not cover the warranty. This is particularly important. Don't assume that 4S shops are too expensive; in fact, other repair shops aren't cheap either.
I've been driving for over a decade, and dealing with repairs after the warranty period at 4S shops is a challenge. 4S shops offer professional and safe services, using genuine parts that ensure reliable repairs with fewer issues. Once, I had my transmission fixed at a small independent shop, only to experience oil leaks that nearly caused an accident, forcing me to return to the 4S shop for rework. Although the costs are high—labor and parts can easily add up to thousands for minor repairs—safety comes first. For complex systems like engines or electronic controls, 4S shops have specialized tools and training, ensuring better repair quality. It’s hassle-free and helps extend the car’s lifespan. My advice is to save money by going to independent repair shops for minor issues, but for core components, it’s safer to return to 4S shops. Otherwise, hidden risks could compromise driving safety.
