What is the first maintenance period for a new car?
3 Answers
New cars are suitable for their first maintenance at 3 months or 5,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Here are the specific details: Precautions: Make an appointment in advance; bring essential items such as the maintenance manual and vehicle registration certificate; record any faults or questions encountered while driving and inform the staff during the first maintenance registration. First maintenance items: Replace engine oil and oil filter, clean the air filter, check the generator belt and wiper blades for damage; check the levels of various fluids to ensure they are normal; check tire pressure for normal levels, and look for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or damage; inspect the car's chassis, including brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, and CV joints for any scratches; check all switches and lights in the car to ensure they are functioning properly.
When I first got my new car, I was also particularly nervous about the first maintenance timing. After going through seven or eight maintenance sessions, I finally understood the tricks. The first maintenance for a new car is usually recommended to be completed within 3-6 months or 5,000 kilometers, depending on the logo on your steering wheel. Most Japanese cars stick to 5,000 kilometers or six months, while some German cars extend it to one year or 7,500 kilometers. The key to this first maintenance is replacing the engine oil containing metal shavings. The break-in period of a new engine is like the soreness after a workout—timely maintenance ensures no long-term issues. My neighbor’s SUV exceeded the limit by 500 kilometers for its first maintenance, and the dealership almost charged the full amount, nearly voiding the manufacturer’s complimentary first service benefit. The first maintenance stamp in the logbook is also your pass for the warranty period.
Last month, I accompanied my cousin for his first car maintenance. The technician mentioned that the factory-fill fluids in new cars contain special additives. The intervals for the first maintenance vary significantly between brands—Hyundai and Kia typically recommend 5,000 kilometers or six months, while Lexus can go up to 8,000 kilometers. The key is to check the maintenance manual at the bottom right corner of the windshield, which clearly states the deadline in black and white. The first maintenance mainly involves changing the engine oil and oil filter, as well as checking the tightness of the chassis screws. Remember to bring all invoices and documents, as some 4S shops may also adjust tire pressure and wash the car as part of the service. The biggest risk of missing the first maintenance deadline is voiding the warranty—you’ll need complete maintenance records to claim for engine issues. Don’t rely on verbal promises from salespeople; the manual is the legal basis.
