What to Do When the Time for the First Car Maintenance Comes but the Mileage Hasn't Been Reached?
2 Answers
If the time for the first maintenance comes but the mileage hasn't been reached, you must go to the 4S shop for maintenance based on whichever comes first, as each car model has specific regulations in the after-sales system. Below are detailed explanations regarding the first car maintenance: 1. First, the regulations for the first maintenance mileage vary for each car model. For example, domestic brands generally set the standard at three months or 3,000 kilometers, joint-venture brands at 5,000 kilometers or six months, and luxury brands sometimes at one year or 10,000 kilometers. Therefore, if the first maintenance exceeds the specified time or mileage, the cost will be borne by the car owner. 2. The first maintenance is always based on whichever comes first. For instance, if a car's first maintenance is set at 3,000 kilometers or three months, and three months have passed but only 2,000 kilometers have been driven, the first maintenance is still required. Conversely, if the car reaches 3,000 kilometers within one month of purchase but the time hasn't come yet, the first maintenance at the 4S shop is still necessary. Generally, however, 4S shops are more lenient regarding mileage. You can communicate with the after-sales service in advance, and even if the mileage is exceeded, the first maintenance can still be free.
I encountered this situation a few years ago when my car had only run a little over 3,000 kilometers, but the six-month deadline arrived. At the time, I thought the mileage was too low and delayed the service for a while. Later, I noticed the car lacked power and fuel consumption was high. When I took it to the dealership for inspection, the mechanic said the engine oil had absorbed moisture and oxidized, reducing its lubricating effectiveness and accelerating engine wear. They showed me the maintenance manual, which clearly stated that the first service must be performed based on whichever comes first—time or mileage—because parts degrade even when the car is stationary. They recommended an immediate oil change, and the car’s performance improved right after. Since then, I’ve strictly followed the maintenance schedule, regularly checking the oil and filters to prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. Don’t skip it—safety comes first, and scheduling a service takes at most half a day.
