
The first maintenance for a new car is appropriate at 5,000 kilometers. The items included in the first maintenance are: 1. Replace engine oil, oil filter, and clean the air filter; 2. Check whether the levels of various fluids are normal; 3. Inspect the generator belt and wiper blades for any damage; 4. Check tire pressure for normal levels, and look for uneven wear, bulges, or damage on the tires; 5. Examine the brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, and CV joints for any scratches; 6. Test all switches and lights in the car to ensure they are functioning properly. The benefits of the first maintenance include: 1. Ensuring the vehicle's optimal performance; 2. Enhancing driving safety; 3. Reducing engine noise; 4. Extending the vehicle's lifespan.

As a seasoned driver, I usually set the first maintenance for my new car at around 5,000 kilometers, which has almost become an ironclad rule. The engine comes with break-in oil from the factory, and changing it after driving four to five thousand kilometers is particularly crucial to remove metal debris and prevent early wear. I've seen friends delay it until over 10,000 kilometers, only to end up with louder engine noise and noticeably increased fuel consumption. Car manuals often suggest a range of 3,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but 5,000 is the sweet spot—easy to remember and gentle on the car. Going earlier isn’t a bad idea either, since new cars are in an unstable state, and early checks on wiring, brakes, and tire wear are beneficial. Remember, timely maintenance not only saves money and hassle but also impacts driving safety. After every first maintenance, my car always feels as smooth as if it’s been given a boost. Don’t underestimate this milestone—it sets the foundation for future maintenance. I recommend adjusting it based on driving habits; if you frequently drive in heavy traffic or on highways, doing it a bit earlier is even better.

I must say, the first maintenance at 5,000 kilometers for a new car is a good starting point. Personally, I drive with cost-saving in mind, and I've researched that delaying maintenance can save a few hundred in the short term, but the long-term losses are greater. For example, engine seals may age or fuel consumption may increase, leading to higher repair costs. Manufacturers usually recommend maintenance between 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, and I choose 5,000 because by this stage, the new parts have broken in and it's time to change the oil. If you often drive in suburban or mountainous areas with rougher road conditions, you might want to check the chassis and battery a bit earlier. Don't forget to develop a habit of regular maintenance every 10,000 kilometers after the first service—this can extend the vehicle's lifespan by over ten years. My personal experience proves that early maintenance is a hundred times more cost-effective than fixing issues later, especially with the rise of electric vehicles now, where the battery system also needs an initial check to ensure performance isn't compromised.

I choose to do the first maintenance at only 5,000 kilometers when driving a new car, which is simple to remember and practical. The manufacturer's manual standard is between 3,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but 5,000 kilometers is a safe middle ground. Mainly change the engine oil and filter, and remove metal residues to keep the engine running smoothly. Going earlier poses no risk, but delaying might trigger warranty issues. I personally feel the car accelerates faster after each maintenance, and the cost is low, making it a worthwhile investment. Maintaining this frequency helps save money in the long run and ensures safety.


