What to Prepare for the First Maintenance?
2 Answers
Items required for the first maintenance include: driver's license; maintenance manual; warranty manual; owner's ID card; vehicle registration certificate; vehicle purchase invoice. Bring these to the designated first maintenance service provider for the vehicle's initial service. Important note: Make an appointment with the 4S store in advance. The first maintenance refers to the initial service after a new car has been driven. The specific timing varies by vehicle, typically around 5,000 kilometers or six months. It is essential to attend the first maintenance on time—neither early nor delayed. The completion of the first maintenance marks the end of the vehicle's break-in period, allowing it to operate under standard load and normal speeds as required. The first maintenance period is calculated from the vehicle pickup date and is determined by two indicators: mileage and time—whichever comes first. First maintenance tasks include: changing the engine oil and oil filter, cleaning the air filter, checking various fluid levels, inspecting the generator belt and wiper blades for damage, verifying tire pressure, and examining tires for damage or bulges. Estimated time required: Approximately 2 hours to complete all tasks. The most critical aspects of a new car's first maintenance are changing the engine oil and oil filter. The oil filter must be replaced along with the oil. When selecting engine oil, refer to the Vehicle User and Maintenance Manual, as different models require different oil specifications. Maintenance precautions: Do not rinse the interior with water: Many people clean their cars themselves during holidays, using water and a cloth to wash the interior. It is important to note that the interior should not be directly rinsed with water. If floor mats are dirty, use a vacuum cleaner or remove them to scrub with a brush and detergent, then dry before reinstalling. The rubber floor mats in the driver's compartment have many drainage holes underneath. Water entering these areas will not dry naturally but may flow into the transmission and other components, causing corrosion. The best practice is to vacuum first, then wipe with a damp cloth to avoid water accumulation. Do not mix different brands of antifreeze: If the antifreeze level is low, drain the existing antifreeze and refill with the same brand. Different antifreeze brands have varying chemical compositions, and mixing them may lead to corrosion due to incompatible additives. Avoid mixing brands to prevent unnecessary issues. Do not lubricate wheel bolts and nuts: Some may apply lubricant to prevent rust on wheel bolts and nuts, but this can pose safety risks. At high speeds, lubricated bolts and nuts may loosen or even detach, leading to driving hazards. Do not press the accelerator when starting an EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) vehicle: EFI vehicles differ from conventional cars, as their fuel injection control system automatically adjusts fuel supply based on engine temperature and conditions, ensuring smooth starts without throttle input.
When I went for my first car maintenance, I was a bit flustered as a new driver. Remember to bring the vehicle's user manual, which contains the first maintenance record page that the dealer needs to stamp as proof. Don’t forget your appointment number or confirmation text, otherwise you might end up waiting in line for a long time. Also, bring your driver’s license and ID to prove you’re the owner, as some 4S shops require the owner to be present. Additionally, note down the mileage of your new car and any unusual sounds or minor issues beforehand, so you can inform the technician directly during the service for timely fixes. The whole process is quite simple—don’t stress. Dealers usually provide the service for free, and just ask for recommendations on the next maintenance before you leave.
