When Does the First Maintenance Period Start?

[SanJanelle]

First maintenance for a car refers to the initial servicing after the vehicle has been driven. The timing for the first maintenance varies by vehicle, typically required after driving 1,000-3,000 kilometers. There are two methods to calculate the first maintenance period: 1. The first maintenance date is calculated from the day the car is picked up. 2. The operational date after picking up the car, generally within 3 months or around 3,000 kilometers. Different car brands have varying requirements, so it's advisable to refer to the owner's manual. Relevant information about the first maintenance includes: 1. During the break-in period, since the engine, transmission gears, etc., have not fully worn in smoothly, the car should not be driven too fast—absolutely not exceeding 100 km/h, and preferably not exceeding 80 km/h. 2. If the car is driven infrequently and it takes a long time to reach 3,000 kilometers, the first maintenance should be done within three months.

[AriannaRose]

Regarding when the first maintenance period starts, I specifically asked the 4S dealership when I picked up my new car last time. The staff told me that the first maintenance period is usually calculated based on the date of the car purchase invoice, while some 4S dealerships count it from the date the vehicle is delivered to you. In my case, it was calculated as six months or 5,000 kilometers from the day I picked up the car, whichever comes first. I remember the salesperson also reminded me not to exceed the deadline, otherwise the free first maintenance would be void. It's recommended to set a reminder in your phone after picking up the car and proactively contact the 4S dealership to schedule an appointment as the date approaches. The first maintenance mainly involves changing the engine oil and oil filter, which is particularly important as it helps clean out impurities from the new car during the break-in period. Anyway, don’t follow my neighbor’s example—he went for maintenance three months late and ended up spending over 800 yuan more.

[LeTheo]

Our repair shop often encounters car owners who miss their first maintenance deadline. Simply put, there are two methods for calculating the first maintenance period: For regular brands, it starts from the invoice date, while luxury brands strictly follow the system registration time. Most vehicles require first maintenance at either six months or 5,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. I've seen cases where owners took delivery of their new car but had to travel for three months on business, leaving only one month for first maintenance upon return. Special attention: Never calculate based on the vehicle's production date—that's a common misconception. Last time, an Audi owner came for maintenance over ten days late based on production date, but the system showed it as expired and refused free service. Remember, the maintenance manual clearly marks the starting point—always verify this with the salesperson during vehicle pickup.

[RemingtonMarie]

The first service timing depends on the purchase invoice date, while some calculate it from the first registration date. Generally, the first service is due in six months or 5,000 kilometers. Veteran drivers like us always mark the date in the manual on the delivery day. Nowadays, 4S shops will call to remind you before the deadline, and WeChat service accounts also send push notifications. If your new car has low mileage but approaches the six-month mark, even with only 2,000 kilometers driven, you should still go for maintenance. My advice is to book an appointment in advance—this way, the first service takes about an hour, and you can have the technician check tire pressure and lights while you're there. Never exceed the deadline, as it not only affects the warranty but also means engine break-in debris should be cleaned as early as possible.

[MacPaul]

From what I understand, the first maintenance period is calculated from the vehicle delivery date. It's advisable to confirm this start date immediately after taking delivery of the car. Most family cars require their first maintenance at 6 months or 5,000 kilometers, while hybrid models may have shorter intervals. Last week, my friend just had his first maintenance done, and although he exceeded the limit by 200 kilometers, the 4S dealership still performed it for free. However, this varies by dealership; stricter ones will follow the rules precisely. Before the first maintenance, avoid driving too fast, and keep the RPM below 4,000, especially for the first 1,500 kilometers—drive gently. The first maintenance includes basic servicing, and remember to bring the maintenance manual and driver's license. Some 4S dealerships might also give you car wash vouchers or windshield washer fluid.