What Does a Car's First Maintenance Generally Include?

[LeTyler]

The first maintenance at a 4S shop includes the following aspects: changing the engine oil and oil filter, cleaning the air filter; checking whether the levels of various fluids are normal, inspecting the generator belt and wiper blades for any damage; checking whether the tire pressure is normal and if there are any signs of uneven tire wear, bulging, or damage; inspecting the chassis, including the brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, CV joints, and any scratches, etc.; checking all the switches in the car; ensuring that the lights are functioning properly. Estimated time: Completing all the work takes about 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, and take the vehicle to the designated first maintenance facility for the service. 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, with the specific time varying by vehicle, generally after driving 1,000 to 3,000 kilometers. It is essential to attend the first maintenance on time, neither early nor delayed. The completion of the first maintenance marks the end of the car's break-in period, allowing it to be driven under standard loads and at normal speeds as required by the vehicle. The first maintenance time is calculated from the date of vehicle pickup. There are two indicator values 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 of a new car: changing the engine oil, cleaning the three filters—oil filter, fuel filter, and air filter; checking whether the coolant level is within the normal range; inspecting the car's brake system and the level of clutch fluid; checking whether the power steering fluid level is normal and if there are any oil leaks at the pipe connections; inspecting the generator, air conditioning, water pump, and the condition of belts for aging and tension; checking tire pressure and wear, inflating the tires as needed, and rotating them if there is uneven wear. When changing the engine oil, the oil filter must also be replaced. The choice of engine oil must refer to the "Vehicle Use and Maintenance Manual," as different vehicle models specify different oil grades. Maintenance precautions: Do not rinse the interior of the car with water: Many people clean their cars during holidays, using water to wash the body and wiping it with a cloth. It is important to note that the interior of the car should not be directly rinsed with water. If the floor mats are dirty, use a vacuum cleaner or remove them to clean with a brush and detergent, dry them, and then put them back. There are many drainage holes under the rubber mats on the cabin floor. If water enters, it will not dry naturally but will flow through the holes to areas like the gearbox, causing corrosion. The best practice is to clean with a vacuum cleaner 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 existing antifreeze and refill it with the same brand from the beginning. Since antifreeze brands differ, their chemical properties vary significantly. The additives in one brand may corrode those in another. Different brands of antifreeze use different additives, so they should not be mixed to avoid unnecessary issues. Do not lubricate tire bolts and nuts: When the bolts on a car become rusty, some people apply oil to make them work smoothly again. However, lubricating the bolts and nuts on the wheels can pose a safety risk. When the car is driven at high speeds, the bolts and nuts may loosen or even fall off, leading to driving hazards. Do not press the accelerator when starting an EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) car: The starter of an EFI car is different from that of a conventional car. Its fuel injection control system can automatically adjust the fuel supply based on the starter's temperature and operating conditions, ensuring a smooth start.