What to Do If the First Maintenance Mileage Has Not Been Reached?

[DiJudah]

The first maintenance is determined by whichever comes first. If the time for the first maintenance arrives but the mileage hasn't been reached, then the time is the determining factor. Below are some key points to note for the first maintenance of a new car: 1. It is essential to change the engine oil and oil filter, and clean the air filter. 2. Check whether the coolant level in the car is within the normal range. 3. Inspect the car's brakes and undercarriage components for any scratches. 4. Verify that the power steering fluid level is normal and check all oil pipe connections for any signs of leakage. 5. Examine the condition of the generator, air conditioning, water pump, and belts for aging and tension. 6. Check the tire pressure and wear condition; if there is uneven wear, consider rotating the tires.

[DeAniyah]

It's actually quite common not to reach the mileage for the first maintenance, especially for office workers like me who mainly commute in the city. Last time I encountered this situation, I went for maintenance directly based on the 6-month period calculated from the purchase date. The 4S shop said that the engine oil would oxidize after six months of opening, and it is recommended to replace it even if the mileage is insufficient. They mainly checked items such as chassis screws, tire pressure, and fluid levels. Before leaving, the mechanic reminded me that the next maintenance could be appropriately delayed by 2-3 months, but not too long to avoid affecting the warranty. Additionally, they suggested that I occasionally drive on the highway to allow the engine to fully operate and reduce carbon deposits.

[ChristopherLee]

I bought a new car last year and it has only run 3,000 kilometers so far. When it was time for the first maintenance, I specifically consulted the manufacturer's customer service. They said the maintenance should be based on whichever comes first: 6 months from the purchase invoice date or the mileage. Even if the mileage is insufficient, the maintenance should be done on time. On the day of maintenance, the mechanic performed a full vehicle inspection, found that the tire pressure was too high and adjusted it, and also topped up the windshield washer fluid for free. The main tasks were changing the engine oil and oil filter. The worker said that during the break-in period of a new car, metal debris mixes with the engine oil, and over time, this can harm the engine more than exceeding the mileage limit. Finally, they also helped reset the maintenance reminder on the car's computer. It's recommended to make an appointment in advance to avoid the weekend rush. The entire process took just 40 minutes.

[DelMaddox]

As ride-hailing drivers, we pay more attention to maintenance timeliness. Based on my experience, it's best not to exceed 8 months for the first maintenance. During the last service, the mechanic used an endoscope to show me the inside of the engine, and there was indeed slight sludge buildup. He explained that even if the car sits idle, the additives in the engine oil will separate and become ineffective. After maintenance, I clearly noticed smoother idling and a 0.3L reduction in fuel consumption. It's recommended to call ahead to confirm you need to bring the maintenance manual and vehicle registration, as some 4S dealerships also require the presence of the original owner for the first maintenance. If you can't go temporarily, remember to start the car and drive for 15 minutes each month to circulate the engine oil.