What are the precautions for car maintenance at a 4S store?
3 Answers
When going to the store for maintenance, you must first check your manual at home. Generally, the manual will indicate the approximate mileage for the first maintenance. This not only gives you a clear idea but also avoids unnecessary losses caused by premature or delayed maintenance. More relevant information is as follows: 1. Do not speak casually: If your professional knowledge is not solid, it's better not to speak casually. If you do, some maintenance personnel might think you are not very knowledgeable, which could lead to unnecessary hidden costs. 2. Supervise on the side: For parts that need to be replaced during maintenance, it's best to supervise on the side. This way, you can know the specific condition of the vehicle and the brands of the replaced parts. Of course, with your presence, the maintenance personnel will not act recklessly. 3. Always pay attention to the regular promotional activities of the 4S store: Especially during special occasions, the discounts can be significant, saving you a lot of money. Additionally, since the vehicle was purchased at the store, the merchant usually provides some free inspection items for the owner. Therefore, you must be particularly attentive because if you don't mention it proactively, sometimes the maintenance personnel might not know, and being charged extra is not cost-effective.
Every time I take my car for maintenance at the 4S shop, I make an appointment a few days in advance on the official website or app, so I don’t have to wait too long and can choose a free time slot. Upon arrival, I immediately check the maintenance checklist with the receptionist, including routine items like oil and filter changes, and clarify the price details to prevent unnecessary services. I always take a photo of the car before it enters the repair area, noting the mileage and exterior, and then inspect it again after maintenance to ensure no new scratches or issues. During the maintenance process, I try to stay nearby and ask the mechanic if I can see the replaced old parts, which gives me peace of mind. When the bill comes, I carefully compare it with the manual’s recommended items and negotiate on the spot to remove any extra charges. Don’t forget to bring the maintenance manual and last service record for their data entry; after maintenance, I keep the receipt for future reference, making the next basic service easier. Regular maintenance at the 4S shop really helps extend the car’s lifespan and avoids the risk of breaking down on the road.
When going to a 4S shop for maintenance, I need to keep my wallet in check because it's easy to overspend. First, I check the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations online, such as oil change intervals, to avoid being upsold on premium services. At the shop, I directly state that I only want the services listed in the manual and decline additional services like air conditioning cleaning or fuel additives unless there's an actual issue with the car. I always ask the receptionist to provide a written quote on the spot, detailing each cost clearly. If anything seems questionable, I ask why the charge is necessary. If the cost seems too high, I mention that other shops offer lower prices and try to negotiate. During maintenance, I try to supervise the process to prevent unnecessary disassembly of parts. After the service, I thoroughly inspect the car to check if the lights and tire pressure are normal, and I verify the bill before paying. The key to saving money is clear communication—don’t let the 4S shop take the lead. Keeping records of each expense also helps with future comparisons, and developing this habit can save a lot in the long run.