What is the optimal mileage for a car's first maintenance?
3 Answers
Different car brands have varying requirements in their maintenance manuals. Most manufacturers recommend a mileage interval of 2,500-3,000 kilometers or 5,000 kilometers. Below are specific details about a car's first maintenance: 1. First maintenance items: During the first maintenance, the main tasks include changing the engine oil and oil filter, cleaning the air filter; checking if various fluid levels are normal; inspecting whether the generator belt and wiper blades are damaged; checking tire pressure for abnormalities, and looking for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or damage; examining the brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, and CV joints for scratches; and ensuring all switches and lights in the vehicle are functioning properly. 2. Benefits of first maintenance: It ensures the vehicle maintains excellent performance; enhances driving safety; reduces engine noise; and extends the vehicle's service life.
When I just bought my new car, I was eager to know when to go for the first maintenance. I think it's most appropriate between 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers, as this marks the end of the vehicle's break-in period, and the engine oil should be changed. During the first few thousand kilometers, the engine is adapting, and metal debris can accumulate. If maintenance isn't done promptly, it may accelerate wear, cause oil leaks, or even trigger electronic control system issues, which can be super expensive to fix. My first car went for maintenance at 7,200 kilometers, and the mechanic checked the oil, filters, and brakes, saying everything was normal. I suggest new car owners refer to the owner's manual, set a phone alarm to remind them of the mileage, and not delay. Developing good habits can extend the vehicle's lifespan, saving worry, money, and ensuring safety.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've found that the first maintenance is best scheduled between 6,000 to 7,500 kilometers. Doing it too early is a waste of money because the engine hasn't fully broken in yet. Waiting too long carries significant risks, such as degraded engine oil affecting lubrication. I usually recommend considering the vehicle's usage—if it's frequently stuck in city traffic with constant stop-and-go, go earlier; if it's mostly highway driving, you can wait a bit longer. Maintenance isn't just about changing the oil; it also includes checking tire wear, battery condition, and more. Timely maintenance helps avoid sudden breakdowns and saves both time and money in the long run—don't wait until a warning light comes on to act.
