When is the first maintenance for a vehicle?
3 Answers
Generally, the first maintenance for a car is recommended when the vehicle has traveled approximately 5,000 kilometers or after six months of use. Below are some relevant details about car maintenance: 1. Maintenance Schedule: The first maintenance is typically at 5,000 kilometers or six months, while the second maintenance is usually at 10,000 kilometers or one year. 2. Maintenance Content: For the first maintenance, special attention should be paid to core components such as the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and chassis. 3. Maintenance Location: You can choose to have the maintenance done at a repair shop or a 4S dealership. Repair shops offer faster service and lower prices, but the quality may not be guaranteed. 4S dealerships provide longer wait times and come with warranties, but the costs are higher.
I was quite confused about the first service time when I just got my new car. After consulting the after-sales service at the 4S店, they told me that the first service is generally recommended at 5,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first. This is mainly because the engine of a new car produces metal debris during the break-in period, and failing to change the oil promptly can affect the engine's lifespan. I personally went for the service at 4,700 kilometers. The technician changed the engine oil and oil filter, and also checked the brakes, tire pressure, and electrical system. I recommend not exceeding the deadline, as it might affect the vehicle's warranty. Pay attention to the maintenance reminder light on the dashboard while driving—different car brands and models may have slightly different requirements, but they generally fall within this range. After the first service, I noticed the engine sound became smoother, and the fuel consumption stabilized a bit.
Old Wang, my neighbor who has been driving a taxi for twenty years, told me that the first maintenance of a new car must never be taken lightly. Most cars require their first maintenance at either 5,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first. He has seen cases where people delayed maintenance by over 2,000 kilometers, resulting in severe engine damage requiring major repairs. The key focus of the first maintenance is changing the engine oil, as metal particles from the break-in period can mix with the oil, and failing to clean them promptly can wear out parts. Additionally, it's important to check for loose screws on the chassis, as new cars are prone to loosening after driving on bumpy roads. Remember the time nodes in the maintenance manual and don't fall for suggestions of excessive maintenance. The veteran driver's advice is to check the oil color every 1,000 kilometers after the first maintenance—if it turns black, it's time to pay attention.
