What is the optimal mileage for the first maintenance of a new car?
2 Answers
The first maintenance for a new car should be performed between 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers or within 3 to 5 months of use, whichever comes first. Below is additional information regarding the first maintenance: Points to note for the first maintenance: Make an appointment in advance; bring essential items such as the maintenance manual and vehicle registration certificate; record any faults or questions encountered during regular driving and inform the staff during the first maintenance registration. Items included in the first maintenance: Replace engine oil and oil filter, clean the air filter, inspect the generator belt and wiper blades for damage; check the levels of various fluids; verify tire pressure and inspect tires for uneven wear, bulges, or damage; examine the car's undercarriage, including brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, and CV joints for any scratches; check all switches and lights to ensure they are functioning properly.
When I first got my car, I specifically asked the experienced technician at the 4S店. Actually, the first maintenance is safest between 3,000-5,000 kilometers. Especially nowadays, even though they say new cars don’t need breaking-in, the engine still sheds some metal particles in the first few hundred kilometers. My neighbor who runs an auto repair shop advised me: if you often drive on highways, go for 5,000 km; if you’re mostly crawling in city traffic, do it earlier at 3,000 km. For my Japanese car, I directly used 0W-20 full synthetic oil for the first maintenance and had the mechanic check the tightness of the chassis screws. Remember not to exceed six months—the shelf life of opened engine oil diminishes.
