What happens if a new car exceeds 3,000 kilometers without maintenance?
2 Answers
Exceeding 3,000 kilometers without maintenance for a new car won't cause any major issues. Manufacturers typically recommend the first service at 5,000 kilometers. Vehicle maintenance cycle: The maintenance cycle is preset when the vehicle leaves the factory, so a "wrench" symbol will periodically appear after certain mileage to remind the driver for timely service. Generally, the maintenance interval is every 5,000-8,000 kilometers driven, with the factory setting usually exceeding 8,000 kilometers. Routine maintenance items: Engine oil maintenance: Engine oil, also called lubricant, reduces engine wear while providing cooling and lubrication. There are three types of engine oil: Full synthetic oil: Replacement recommended every 10,000-12,000 kilometers. For seldom-driven vehicles, the oil may emulsify and lose effectiveness, requiring annual replacement. Semi-synthetic oil: Replacement recommended every 8,000-10,000 kilometers. Mineral oil: Requires replacement approximately every 5,000 kilometers.
I heard a story from a friend the other day. After picking up his new car, he was so busy with business trips that he unintentionally exceeded the first service interval by nearly 4,000 kilometers. When he took it to the 4S shop, they found a lot of black sludge in the engine. The technician said prolonged high-temperature operation causes oil oxidation, which can wear out piston rings. Fortunately, there was no cylinder scoring, but he had to spend an extra 200+ yuan on cleaning the fuel system. During daily driving, he noticed significantly increased engine noise and fuel consumption about 0.5L/100km higher than others. Actually, the factory-fill oil contains special additives that lose their protective properties once deteriorated. It's recommended to set a phone reminder right after getting a new car. If you frequently encounter city traffic jams, check the oil condition at 3,000 kilometers. It's also a good idea to check tire pressure at the same time. Many 4S shops offer free first services, so don't waste this opportunity.
