What needs to be checked during a car's first maintenance?

[JohnnyMarie]

Items that need to be checked during a car's first maintenance include: 1. Replace engine oil, oil filter, cabin air filter, and engine air filter; 2. Check the levels of coolant, battery fluid, and windshield washer fluid; 3. Check brake and clutch fluid levels, as well as power steering fluid level; 4. Inspect all system oil pipe connections for leaks; 5. Check front and rear lights; 6. Check tire pressure and wear, and tighten screws to specified torque. The first maintenance for a car is typically around 5,000 kilometers, which refers to the first service after the vehicle has been driven. Precautions for the first maintenance include: 1. Make an appointment with the 4S shop in advance; 2. Bring the vehicle registration certificate and maintenance manual.

[Brayden]

As a new car owner, I specifically checked the first maintenance checklist. The 4S dealership will focus on changing the engine oil and oil filter, since metal shavings can come off during the engine break-in period. The chassis must be lifted to check all screws - last time they found a loose underbody shield screw on my car. Tire pressure and wear must be measured, especially for cars that have been driven on highways where wheel balancing needs inspection. Brake pad thickness and brake fluid condition should also be checked, as new drivers tend to brake more frequently. Fluid checks are most critical: coolant level must be sufficient, windshield washer fluid topped up, and power steering fluid color correct. Finally, they'll scan for trouble codes and test all lights, AC, and wipers. I recommend making an appointment in advance to save time - just bring your maintenance manual.

[Bobby]

My daily driver just had its first service, and I noticed several key points. The engine oil and filter definitely need to be replaced, but it's better to proactively request full synthetic oil. Tire pressure must be adjusted to the standard value, as new cars often come with overinflated tires from the factory. All suspension bolts should be fully tightened, especially after driving on rough roads where they tend to loosen. Pay special attention to the brake system - new car brake discs might have scratches that need polishing. Also check all filters: clean dust from the air filter and remove odors from the cabin air filter, which is crucial for people with respiratory sensitivities. Remember to have the mechanic test drive to listen for abnormal noises, as new car chassis bushings often squeak before proper break-in. It's best to supervise the entire process, as some shops might skip certain service items.

[DelRafael]

For the first maintenance, I'm most concerned about engine protection. It's essential to replace the initial factory oil containing metal shavings—the mechanic said this step directly impacts engine lifespan. The cooling system requires special attention to hose clamps, as new cars are prone to leaks due to thermal expansion and contraction. The ignition coils and spark plugs need inspection, as cold start difficulties often stem from here. The transmission dipstick should be checked—though no fluid change is needed, ensure there's no emulsification. For steering wheel noises, simply adjusting the steering column screws worked wonders—my car became silent immediately afterward. Finally, check the battery health, as prolonged parking harms new car batteries the most. The entire process took 40 minutes, faster than expected.

[JadeLee]

Families with children should pay special attention to safety items during the first maintenance. In addition to the regular oil change, I always check these three things: whether the child safety seat interface is secure (I once saw a buckle that wasn't properly fastened); the moisture content in the brake fluid, which affects braking distance; and all vehicle lights, especially fog lights—driving in the rain without them is too dangerous. Remove stones from the tires and check for cracks; any bulges on the tire sidewalls mean they must be replaced. Test the anti-pinch function of the power windows—once, a child reached out and got pinched. Replace the wiper blades, as new car blades are often subpar. It's advisable to take photos of the undercarriage with your phone for maintenance records, which adds peace of mind.

[McCaroline]

Veteran drivers know the first maintenance is a golden inspection period. Oil and filter change is basic, but more importantly, check for oil leaks around engine gaskets. Remove the underbody shield to inspect—many new cars have scraped oil pans from bottoming out. Check exhaust pipe hangers to avoid resonance noises. Wheel alignment must be measured—factory settings aren’t always accurate. Inspect the washer fluid tank for cracks, which often freeze and crack in winter. Lubricate door hinges and stoppers for smoother operation. Finally, verify onboard tools: spare tire pressure, jack, and warning triangle—dealers often overlook these emergency items. Stay in the workshop throughout—learning while observing is most practical.