What are the differences between car maintenance at a 4S store and outside?
1 Answers
The differences between car maintenance at a 4S store and outside include variations in technology, price, parts, tools, duration, service, and professionalism. Technology differences: Because 4S stores are backed by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and receive periodic training and systematic professional learning from the OEM, their professional level is relatively high. Auto repair shops lack a complete management system and cannot evaluate and monitor the complete condition of the vehicle. Sometimes, they rely solely on experience to determine which parts need replacement, and the replaced parts cannot be genuine OEM parts. Price differences: Maintenance at a 4S store enjoys the manufacturer's warranty, usually for 2 years or 60,000 kilometers. If any issues arise during this period, the manufacturer will provide free repairs and maintenance. However, after the warranty period, car maintenance at a 4S store is more expensive than at an outside auto repair shop. Outside repair shops have lower maintenance costs but higher risks. Parts differences: 4S stores' parts generally have official codes, including genuine part models and official oil specifications. Therefore, maintenance at a 4S store ensures that the car can be fitted with genuine OEM parts. Repair shops have multiple supply channels, and the quality of parts varies. Although costs are lower, quality cannot be guaranteed. Tools differences: 4S stores have more specialized tools than ordinary shops. The value of specialized tools in a typical brand 4S store exceeds hundreds of thousands. The maintenance workshop in a 4S store is equipped with a complete set of original specialized maintenance tools, which ordinary shops cannot afford due to financial constraints. Duration differences: Outside shops have fewer maintenance vehicles, so the speed of maintenance or repairs is much faster than at 4S stores. Additionally, there is more flexibility. You can buy the oil and parts you need yourself and observe the entire maintenance process. Service and professionalism differences: Outside repair shops may skip some maintenance steps when the car owner is not present. 4S stores strictly follow the items on the maintenance checklist, and they are equipped with lounges for customers to rest. Disputes are less likely to occur at 4S stores. If a problem arises during maintenance, the manufacturer usually compensates, whereas outside repair shops may evade responsibility. During the vehicle warranty period, not maintaining the car at a 4S store may affect the warranty. Many car models stipulate that faults caused by incorrect maintenance, lack of normal maintenance, or the use of fuel, lubricants, and other working fluids that do not comply with the specifications in the are not covered by the warranty. During the warranty period, it is recommended to perform vehicle maintenance at brand-authorized dealers to avoid losing more by trying to save a little.
