Have you bought your first car? Here are 5 important maintenance tips for your new car to make it last longer.
Buying a new car is a joyous time, but for some first-time car owners, it can also be nerve-wracking. Just the daily hurdles of maintaining, driving and dodging traffic can sometimes become so overwhelming that car buyers forget the joy of owning not just a new car, but their first.
While there’s nothing you can do about the condition of our roads or traffic, there’s a lot you can do about maintenance. Here are 5 important car maintenance tips for first-time car buyers.
Read the manual
First, before you drive off into the sunset with your new car, read your owner’s manual carefully. It may seem unnecessary, but the manual lets you know where the fuses are, what type of oil to use, when to service the car, how much tire pressure is recommended, and more.
The manual also helps you become familiar with the controls, what they do, and how to use them safely. Also, once you’ve read it, keep it in your glove compartment and remember to keep it in your car at all times.
Protects the paint
Smaller scratches can be extremely visible on new paint, especially if the car is finished in bright colors like red or black. To avoid this, protect the exterior. A good ceramic coat is good if it’s just dust.
However, if you are concerned about the paint itself, a clear PPF is recommended, especially on the hood and roof. This clear wrap will protect the car to some extent from the scratches and faded paint that the sun can cause.
Aftermarket accessories? Think twice
One thing that most of us like to do is get a new car and outfit it with a bunch of stuff like a new music system, upgraded speakers, fog lights and more. While most of these things are fine and offered by the automakers themselves, don’t overdo it.
Car audio systems and electrical upgrades are the most common accessories and if they are done anywhere other than the dealership, you risk your car warranty coverage. Also, if they are not done right, you can risk a lot more like if the car catches fire.
Drive slow, take your time
New cars don’t need to be used as before, as most engines have already passed this stage from the factory. That doesn’t mean you have to put the pedal to the metal either. Take it easy as it is your first car and understand the dynamics, handling, braking and how the car reacts to your driving.
Serve it on time
Buying a car is only the first step. Maintenance and upkeep are key steps for your car to last a long time. Never miss service intervals and let the authorized technician do what the manual says. Also, change your tires when it’s time, and if you ever find something wrong, get it checked right away. Fixing these problems early saves you a lot of money.
