What to Do If the First Maintenance Period Has Passed?
2 Answers
The solution when the first maintenance period has passed is: First, negotiate the first maintenance time with the 4S shop. If it is about a month overdue, the first maintenance can usually still be performed. The 4S manufacturer has a grace period for overdue first maintenance in terms of time and mileage, so car owners should strive to protect their rights. Below is relevant information about the first maintenance: 1. The first maintenance has two indicators: mileage and time. It depends on which comes first—either mileage or time—not both conditions. Exceeding either one will affect the first maintenance. 2. According to legal provisions, if the car owner does not go to the shop for maintenance after the first maintenance date, it will be regarded as automatically giving up the right to the first maintenance. Therefore, car owners should pay close attention to the first maintenance of their vehicle.
I was so excited when I bought my last car that I completely missed the first maintenance deadline by nearly a month. My heart sank when I realized it, as I'd heard this might void the warranty or require out-of-pocket payment. I immediately contacted the 4S dealership, explaining I'd forgotten due to work commitments. The service advisor said they could still accommodate me since I came in relatively promptly, with no additional charges. They promptly arranged an oil and filter inspection—fortunately, no major issues were found, though they warned that further delay could have caused severe engine carbon buildup affecting longevity. Since then, I've developed a habit of setting calendar reminders on my phone and checking maintenance records every three months—only with a healthy car can I drive long distances with peace of mind. Truthfully, don't panic if you miss the first maintenance; most dealerships will show flexibility, but don't delay further. Preventive maintenance costs far less than regret.
