06/04/2019
Understanding Hyundai's Complimentary Maintenance Program
For many car owners, the prospect of unexpected maintenance costs can be a significant worry. Hyundai, however, aims to alleviate some of this concern with its industry-leading Complimentary Maintenance program. This initiative is designed to provide Hyundai owners with peace of mind by covering essential scheduled maintenance services for a specified period. But what exactly does this program entail? This article will delve into the intricacies of Hyundai's complimentary maintenance, exploring the services covered, the duration of the coverage, and the overall benefits it offers to ensure your Hyundai remains in peak condition.
What is Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance?
The Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance program is a manufacturer-backed plan that covers certain scheduled maintenance services for new Hyundai vehicles. It's a testament to Hyundai's confidence in the reliability and longevity of their cars. This program is typically included with the purchase of a new Hyundai and is designed to encourage owners to adhere to the recommended service schedule, thereby maximising the vehicle's performance and lifespan. It's not just about saving money; it's about ensuring your Hyundai receives the care it needs from qualified technicians using genuine Hyundai parts.
Services Included in the Program
The core of the Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance program lies in the specific services it covers. While the exact inclusions can vary slightly depending on the model year and specific region, generally, the program covers routine maintenance items that are crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and safely. These typically include:
- Engine oil and oil filter changes: This is perhaps the most frequent and essential maintenance task. Regular oil changes are vital for lubricating the engine's moving parts, preventing wear, and keeping the engine clean.
- Tire rotations: Rotating your tires at recommended intervals ensures even wear, which extends tire life and improves handling and fuel efficiency.
- Multi-point inspections: During your scheduled service visits, Hyundai technicians will perform a thorough inspection of various vehicle components, including brakes, fluids, lights, and suspension, to identify any potential issues before they become serious problems.
- AdBlue/Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) replacement (for diesel models): For Hyundai diesel vehicles, the DEF needs to be replenished periodically to ensure the emissions control system functions correctly.
It's important to note that this program does not cover wear-and-tear items such as brake pads, brake discs, wiper blades, or tires themselves if they are damaged or worn out due to normal usage. It also does not cover repairs resulting from accidents, misuse, or lack of proper maintenance (i.e., missing scheduled services).
Duration and Mileage Limits
The Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance program is not indefinite. It is typically offered for a specific period or mileage, whichever comes first. For most new Hyundai vehicles purchased in the UK, the coverage usually extends for:
- 3 Years or 36,000 Miles (whichever comes first).
This timeframe is designed to cover the initial years of ownership when routine maintenance is most critical. Once this period or mileage limit is reached, you will be responsible for the cost of subsequent maintenance services. Therefore, it's crucial to be aware of your vehicle's mileage and the program's expiration to plan accordingly.
Benefits of the Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance Program
Participating in the Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance program offers several significant advantages:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost Savings | The most obvious benefit is the reduction in out-of-pocket expenses for essential scheduled maintenance, which can add up over time. |
| Expert Service | Services are performed by factory-trained technicians who have the specialised knowledge and tools to work on your Hyundai. |
| Genuine Parts | Only genuine Hyundai parts and fluids are used, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance, and helping to maintain your vehicle's warranty. |
| Maintained Resale Value | Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule with genuine parts can help maintain your Hyundai's resale value. A well-documented service history is a significant selling point. |
| Enhanced Reliability | Regular servicing by professionals helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major, costly repairs, thus improving overall reliability. |
| Peace of Mind | Knowing that your vehicle is being maintained to the manufacturer's standards by experts provides invaluable peace of mind. |
How to Keep Your Hyundai in Top Condition: Checking Your Engine Oil
While the complimentary maintenance program covers scheduled services, there are still things you can do as an owner to ensure your Hyundai is running optimally between visits. One of the most critical is regularly checking your engine oil. Low oil levels can lead to increased friction, overheating, and severe engine damage. Here's a simple guide on how to check your engine oil:
- Ensure the Engine is Cool: Park your Hyundai on a level surface and turn off the engine. Allow it to cool down for at least 10-15 minutes. Checking the oil when the engine is warm is acceptable, but ensure the car has been off for a few minutes to allow the oil to settle back into the sump.
- Locate the Dipstick: Open the bonnet (hood) and locate the engine oil dipstick. It's usually a brightly coloured loop or handle, often yellow or orange, and typically marked with an oil can symbol.
- Remove and Wipe the Dipstick: Pull the dipstick out completely. Use a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel to wipe off all the oil from the dipstick.
- Reinsert and Remove Again: Fully reinsert the dipstick back into its tube, then pull it out again.
- Check the Oil Level: Examine the end of the dipstick. You'll see markings indicating the minimum and maximum oil levels, often represented by two dots or lines. The oil level should be between these two marks.
- Assess Oil Condition: While you're checking the level, also look at the oil's colour and consistency. New oil is typically amber and translucent. If the oil appears dark, sludgy, or has metallic particles, it may be time for an oil change sooner than scheduled, or there might be an underlying issue.
- Adding Oil (If Necessary): If the oil level is below the minimum mark, you'll need to add oil. Locate the oil filler cap (usually marked with an oil can symbol and the recommended oil viscosity, e.g., 5W-30). Add a small amount of the correct type of oil at a time, wait a few minutes for it to settle, and recheck the level with the dipstick. Do not overfill.
Remember, the video provided by Hyundai is a helpful visual guide, but always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions tailored to your model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance transferable if I sell my car?
Generally, the complimentary maintenance program is tied to the vehicle and the original owner. However, it's best to check your specific owner's manual or contact a Hyundai dealership for confirmation, as policies can sometimes vary.
Q2: What happens if I miss a scheduled maintenance service?
Missing a scheduled service can void your complimentary maintenance coverage for that specific service and potentially impact your vehicle's overall manufacturer warranty. It's crucial to adhere to the recommended service intervals outlined in your owner's manual.
Q3: Can I take my Hyundai to any garage for complimentary maintenance?
No, the complimentary maintenance services must be performed at an authorised Hyundai dealership to be covered under the program.
Q4: Does the program cover wear-and-tear items like brake pads?
No, the Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance program typically covers scheduled maintenance items like oil changes and tire rotations. It does not cover routine wear-and-tear items such as brake pads, brake discs, wiper blades, or tyres.
Q5: How do I know when my next service is due?
Your Hyundai vehicle will often indicate when a service is due via a 'Service Due' or similar warning light on the dashboard. Additionally, you can consult your owner's manual for the detailed maintenance schedule based on mileage and time intervals.
Conclusion
Hyundai's Complimentary Maintenance program is a valuable benefit that underscores the brand's commitment to customer satisfaction and vehicle longevity. By covering essential services for the initial period of ownership, it not only saves owners money but also encourages proper maintenance practices, leading to a more reliable, efficient, and valuable vehicle. Understanding what's covered, adhering to the schedule, and performing simple checks like monitoring your engine oil are key to maximising the benefits of this excellent program and ensuring your Hyundai continues to provide a superb driving experience for years to come.
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