What are the main items replaced during the first car maintenance?
3 Answers
The first maintenance at a 4S shop includes the following aspects: changing the engine oil, oil filter, and cleaning the air filter; checking the levels of various fluids to ensure they are normal, inspecting the generator belt and wiper blades for any damage; checking the tire pressure for normalcy and looking for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or other damage; inspecting the chassis, including the brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, CV joints, and checking for any scratches; examining all the switches in the car; ensuring the lights are functioning properly. Estimated time: Completing all the work takes approximately 2 hours. Items to bring for the first maintenance include: driver's license; maintenance manual; warranty manual; owner's ID card; vehicle registration certificate; vehicle purchase invoice. The first maintenance should be done at the designated service center. Important note: Make an appointment with the 4S shop in advance. The first maintenance refers to the initial service after a new car has been driven. The specific time varies by vehicle but is generally after driving 1,000 to 3,000 kilometers. It is essential to attend the first maintenance on time, neither early nor delayed. Completing the first maintenance signifies the end of the car's break-in period, allowing the vehicle to be driven under standard load and normal speeds as required. The timing for the first maintenance is calculated from the date of vehicle pickup. There are two indicators for the first maintenance: mileage and time. Whichever comes first serves as the standard. Here are the essential inspections and replacements that must be completed during the first maintenance: changing the engine oil and cleaning the three filters—oil filter, fuel filter, and air filter; checking the coolant level to ensure it is normal; inspecting the brake system and the level of the clutch fluid; verifying the power steering fluid level and checking for any leaks at the pipe connections; examining the generator, air conditioning, water pump, and belt for aging and tension; checking the tire pressure and wear condition, adjusting tire pressure or rotating tires if necessary. When changing the engine oil, the oil filter must also be replaced. The choice of engine oil should refer to the "Vehicle User Maintenance Manual," as different models require different oil specifications. Maintenance precautions: Do not wash the interior of the car with water: Many people clean their cars during holidays, using water to rinse the body and wiping it with a cloth. It is important to note that the interior should not be washed directly with water. If the floor mats are dirty, use a vacuum cleaner or remove them, clean them with a brush and detergent, dry them, and then put them back. The rubber mats under the driver's floor have many holes. If water enters, it will not dry naturally but will flow through the holes to areas like the transmission, causing corrosion. The best practice is to use a vacuum cleaner followed by a damp cloth to prevent water accumulation. Do not mix different brands of antifreeze: If the antifreeze level is low, it is recommended to drain the existing antifreeze and refill it with the same brand. Different brands of antifreeze have varying chemical properties, and mixing them can lead to corrosion. Each brand uses different additives, so avoid mixing them to prevent unnecessary issues. Do not lubricate tire bolts and nuts: When bolts on a moving car rust, they are often oiled to function again. Some people apply lubricant to the bolts and nuts to prevent rust, but this can pose a safety risk. At high speeds, the bolts and nuts may loosen or even fall out, leading to driving hazards. Do not press the accelerator when starting an EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) car: The starter of an EFI car differs from that of a conventional car. The fuel injection control system can automatically adjust the fuel supply based on the starter's temperature and operating conditions, ensuring a smooth start.
I just went through the first maintenance service for my new car. As an average car owner, the key tasks are changing the engine oil and oil filter. After the break-in period of driving 1,000 to 5,000 kilometers, tiny metal particles from engine component friction mix with the old oil and must be flushed out. The shop technician also checked basic items like tire pressure, brake fluid, and coolant levels to ensure everything was normal. The whole process took about an hour, and the cost is often included in the vehicle purchase service package. After the oil change, I immediately noticed the engine runs quieter, acceleration feels smoother, and fuel efficiency improved slightly. I recommend not missing the first maintenance deadline – this step significantly extends engine life and prevents severe wear or malfunctions later. Maintaining a new car diligently brings peace of mind since it's your valuable new companion.
From a technical perspective, the core of a new car's first maintenance is changing the engine oil and oil filter. During the initial driving phase of a new car's engine, the break-in process between components like pistons and cylinder walls leaves behind tiny metal particles, making it essential to replace the oil within the first few thousand kilometers to flush them out. The oil change process involves draining the old oil, installing a new filter, and refilling with the standard oil quantity. Additionally, routine checks such as tire balance, brake system sensitivity, and coolant concentration are performed, though these are not the main replacement tasks. The importance of the first maintenance cannot be overlooked; it prevents early engine wear, improves fuel efficiency, and saves on long-term repair costs. Depending on the vehicle model, some first maintenance services may include software updates or minor adjustments, but remember that the focus is on the oil change—the sooner it's done, the greater the benefits.
