What Must Be Replaced During a Car's First Maintenance?
3 Answers
During a car's first maintenance, the following items must be replaced: engine oil and the oil filter. Other tasks mainly involve inspections, such as tightening visible screws and nuts under the chassis and checking the stability of the exhaust pipe hangers. The first maintenance must be performed within either 5,000 kilometers or six months of the car's use, whichever comes first. It is ideal to perform the first maintenance when the car has been driven between 4,000 to 5,000 kilometers, but it is recommended not to exceed six months of usage. When going for the first maintenance, bring the maintenance manual and the vehicle's registration certificate. Remember to have the 4S shop stamp the maintenance record each time, detailing the maintenance items and the date. This practice facilitates the next owner in viewing the vehicle's maintenance history when the car changes hands.
The first maintenance must include an oil and oil filter change, otherwise it will affect the car's performance. I always remember this whenever I get a new car, especially after the break-in period when the oil accumulates a lot of metal shavings. Failing to change it promptly can wear out the engine. The oil lubricates components to reduce friction, and the oil filter acts as a guardian to remove impurities. Changing these two makes the car run much smoother. Additionally, the first maintenance also includes checking tire pressure, brake pads, and coolant. While these don't necessarily need replacement, neglecting them can lead to future issues. For example, I once skipped checking the brakes and nearly had a minor accident. I recommend not skimping on these small expenses—get it done at a 4S shop or a reliable repair shop. Otherwise, you risk voiding the warranty, which would be a bigger loss. Also, regularly check the maintenance schedule in the manual for peace of mind and safety.
When I first bought my car, I wondered what must be replaced during the initial maintenance. The conclusion was just two things: engine oil and the oil filter. Engine oil ensures smooth lubrication and reduces friction in the engine, while the oil filter removes impurities generated during the break-in period of new components—these are mandatory requirements no one can skip. Considering the cost, a single replacement costs a few hundred bucks, which is much cheaper than engine repairs and helps maintain the car's value and warranty. I use a mobile app to track maintenance records, which automatically reminds me of the dates to change the oil filter and engine oil—super convenient. The initial maintenance also includes checking the air filter and battery voltage to ensure the car stays trouble-free. This habit has saved me a lot on repair costs. The first year of maintenance for a new car is crucial—don’t slack off. The sooner you do it, the sooner you’ll have peace of mind.