What are the precautions for Volkswagen's first maintenance?
2 Answers
Items to bring for the first maintenance include: driver's license; maintenance manual; warranty manual; owner's ID card; vehicle's registration certificate; vehicle's purchase invoice, and take the vehicle to the designated first maintenance facility for service. The key precaution is to make an appointment with the 4S shop in advance. The first maintenance refers to the initial service after a new car has been driven, with the specific timing varying by vehicle, typically after driving 3,000~5,000 kilometers or about half a year. It is essential to attend the first maintenance on time, neither early nor late. The completion of the first maintenance marks the end of the car's break-in period, allowing it to be driven under standard load and normal speed as required by the vehicle. The timing for the first maintenance is calculated from the date of vehicle pickup. There are two indicator values for the first maintenance: mileage and time. Whichever comes first will be the standard. The first maintenance items include: changing the engine oil and oil filter, cleaning the air filter, checking various fluid levels for normality, inspecting the generator belt and wiper blades for damage, checking tire pressure for normality, and examining tires for damage or bulges. Estimated time required: Approximately 2 hours to complete all tasks. The most crucial aspect of a new car's first maintenance is changing the engine oil and oil filter. When changing the oil, the oil filter must also be replaced. The selection of engine oil must refer to the "Vehicle Usage and Maintenance Manual," as different vehicle models specify different oil grades. Maintenance precautions: Do not wash the interior of the car body with water: Many people clean their cars during holidays, washing the body with water and wiping it with a cloth. It is important to note that the interior of the car body should not be directly washed with water. If the floor mats are dirty, use a vacuum cleaner or take them out to brush with detergent, dry them, and then put them back. There are many drainage holes under the rubber mats on the floor of the driver's compartment. If water enters, it will not dry naturally but will flow through these holes to the gearbox and other parts, causing erosion and corrosion. The best practice is to clean with a vacuum and then wipe with a cloth to prevent water accumulation. Do not mix different brands of antifreeze: When the antifreeze in the car is low, it is recommended to drain the antifreeze and add the same brand from the beginning. Since antifreeze brands differ, their chemical properties vary significantly. Various functional additives may corrode others. Different brands of antifreeze use different additives, so they should not be mixed to avoid unnecessary trouble. 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 bolts and nuts to prevent rust, but this poses a risk to safe driving. At high speeds, bolts and nuts may loosen or even fall off, leading to driving malfunctions. Do not press the accelerator when starting an EFI car: The starter of an EFI car is different from that of a conventional car. Its fuel injection control device can automatically adjust the fuel supply based on the starter's temperature and operating conditions, ensuring a smooth start.
I always pay close attention to car maintenance, and you should never take Volkswagen's first maintenance lightly. First, follow the manual's specified time or mileage, usually within 6 months or 5,000 kilometers, as exceeding this may affect the warranty. Before making an appointment, check for authorized 4S shops and bring the vehicle manual to record car information. Key checks include changing the engine oil and oil filter, inspecting the brake system and tire wear, and checking for loose chassis screws. Don’t forget to check the coolant and air filter condition—these are often overlooked but crucial for long-term health. Wash the car and clean the engine compartment beforehand so the technician can spot issues more clearly. I once delayed maintenance and ended up spending extra money due to brake noise, so I strongly advise against skimping on genuine parts. Don’t rush the process—allow at least two hours to review the report, ensure all details are signed off, and then drive away. Developing this habit can help avoid costly repairs later on.
