I've got an 05 Rubicon which I've had for a month now and have 130km on it (or 80 miles). When I picked it up I was sure the salesman told me I should get it serviced after about the first 100km. Now the guy in the service department just told me over the phone that they don't recommend the first service until 400-500km. He said after that amount of driving, cables and other things stretch and that is when it needs a good going over, and right now with only 130km on it they can only change the oil/filter. I don't like the thoughts of leaving that oil in there until 400km....especially after a fairly brisk break-in. I think I'll atleast get the oil changed now. Anyone agree/disagree, advise is appreciated!

 

You can change the oil (yourself) at 50 km if you like. It'll only cost you the money for the oil and filter. I would only use an OEM filter during the warranty period.

As far as the dealer saying to bring it in for the first service....It's a hook for more money. Unless they've changed the warranty policy, bringing the 4 wheeler back into the dealer for it's first service is just a money grabber. Nowhere in my warranty did it say I had to bring it back or my warranty was void. Plus they wanted something like $125 for this service.

Stick with the OEM parts and follow the service schedule in the owners manual. It's the same thing the dealer does. I hate when they use the void warranty scare tactic.

Good Luck,
Rob

 

I did exactly what you are talking about. I changed my oil and filter at about 50 miles. I just didn't want the metal shavings going through the motor until I took it in for the first service. The way I look at it is that it won't hurt anything to change the oil too soon but it could cause damage if you wait too long.

 

Do the first oil change now yourself, but I'd still bring it back at 500 or so kms to have the dealer do a full service. Have them check every nut and bolt and do all the cable, throttle and brake adjustments. This way its done right and you usually dont have to fool with it ever again. Pus if something goes wrong that they should have checked for, you can hold them liable.

After that service, pick up the repair manual and start your own service.

 

That sounds like a really good plan! thanks for your input!

 

Performing your own periodic maintenance will not void your warranty. All you need do is keep a record of the maintenance that you did yourself. Any dealer that tells you otherwise is simply trying to scare the customer to increase profits.

 

Exactly, you should be able to check for loose nuts and bolts yourself. You think the dealer gets into anything real involved...not. It's a simple money maker for the service department AND a way to get you back into the dealership for parts, extras, assesories, etc.