What to Pay Attention to for the First Car Maintenance?

[StSkylar]

First maintenance is generally around 2,500 kilometers, and it is recommended to perform a minor maintenance every 5,000 kilometers thereafter. Car maintenance includes the following points: 1. Primary maintenance items: After completing primary maintenance, the vehicle should achieve a clean appearance, secure connections, unobstructed three filters, and no leakage of oil, water, air, or electricity. 2. Primary lubrication maintenance items: Check the oil levels of the generator, transmission, rear axle, and steering gear, and add lubricating oil as required. Ensure all oil nozzles on the vehicle are fully equipped and functional. 3. Primary inspection and tightening maintenance items: Check the steering gear, tie rods, and steering arm connections for tightness.

[ElliottDella]

Last time I accompanied a friend for their first maintenance service, I noticed many new car owners overlook key details. Never delay the first maintenance—I usually schedule it between 3,000-5,000 km, as metal particles from the engine break-in period remain suspended in the used oil. Bring the blue-covered maintenance manual, as the dealership needs to stamp it. Focus on three critical items: ensure the engine oil isn’t swapped—watch the technician open a fresh container; all chassis bolts must be re-torqued as they loosen during initial driving; and the onboard computer must be scanned for error codes. Finally, have the service advisor note the next maintenance date on the windshield sticker. Remember, don’t get upsold—the manufacturer covers all necessary first maintenance items.

[Frieda]

Just finished the first maintenance for my new car, money-saving tips to remember. Empty the trunk before heading out, don't waste the original oil given by the 4S store, take the leftovers with you for top-ups that can last three to four times. The first maintenance usually includes free oil and filter changes, but keep an eye on the mechanic to ensure all old oil is drained—not doing so is like skipping the maintenance altogether. Have them adjust the tire pressure to the standard value while you're there, saving a trip to the repair shop. Check the items and prices on the maintenance sheet before signing to avoid being charged for free services. Take advantage of the free car wash, but skip the interior wipe-down as the cleaners can damage leather seats. Snap a photo of the maintenance record and keep it on your phone—it'll come in handy when selling the car later.

[LaCassidy]

As someone who has worked in auto repair, the most crucial aspect of the first maintenance is addressing the mechanical stress during the break-in period. The piston rings and cylinder walls of a new engine are still adapting to each other, and the silvery metal particles in the drained oil are evidence of wear. At this stage, it's essential to use mineral oil or the manufacturer-recommended semi-synthetic oil. Avoid arbitrarily upgrading to full synthetic oil, as its lower viscosity can negatively affect sealing. The first maintenance of the transmission is equally important, as the metal shavings from gear meshing can be even more abundant than in the engine. For chassis inspection, lift the car and shake the tires, as the suspension bushings in new cars are prone to displacement. Never forget to change the rear axle differential oil—many beginners have learned this the hard way.

[EmmanuelLynn]

Three months after picking up the car, on the day of the first maintenance, the technician taught me a few self-inspection tips for maintenance. Before going, check the oil dipstick—if it's black and sticky, it indicates severe engine wear. When the car is cold, press the tire tread; if you notice jagged wear, get a wheel alignment immediately. Don’t just play with your phone in the workshop—listen for a crisper idle sound after the oil change and check if there’s more water dripping from the exhaust, as these are signs of improved combustion efficiency. After maintenance, test drive the car: turn the steering wheel to full lock to listen for any unusual noises from the steering gear, and test the ABS activation with a hard brake. Finally, remember to get the invoice—the three-guarantee service relies on it.