5 Car Maintenance Tips for New Car Owners
Are you a new car owner? Buying a new car as a car insurance customer is a thrilling experience.
One of the first things new car owners want to do is take it on a road trip or drive a long distance. However, if you are a relatively inexperienced driver, you need to know car maintenance tips for driving long distances before you hit the open road.
Read on for our top car maintenance tips to help keep your vehicle on the road during long road trips.
1. Follow the Preventive Maintenance Schedule
This schedule gives guidelines for when certain services need to be done, such as oil changes and brake inspections. You can find the schedule or mileage in the owner’s manual, or you can ask your dealer directly.
The owner’s manual serves as a guide when looking to replace certain components. Many car parts deteriorate over time which is why it is a must to follow the preventive maintenance schedule. Ignoring the prescribed schedule may lead to more costly problems down the road.
2. Check for Essential Fluids Regularly
For safety and performance, check the engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid levels regularly and keep them topped off as needed. Over time, you’ll understand where to look for the dipsticks and reservoir tanks that denote the levels of these fluids.
Oil and coolant should be changed on a regular basis, and brake fluid should be changed every two years or so. If you notice any abnormalities with the smells, colors, or textures of these fluids, have your car professionally inspected for any potential mechanical issues to nip them in the bud.
3. Look Into Paint Protections
As a new car owner, protecting your car from scratches is essential for keeping it looking new. Keeping your car waxed regularly is the most common way to protect it from scratches. Regularly washing your car with the right cloth also helps to remove anything that can scratch and dull your car’s finish.
You may also consider putting in additional protective coatings or installing a car wrap. Coatings are chemical solutions applied to your car’s body to protect the paint from damage. Car wraps linked here are cost-effective and can protect your car from paint damage.
4. Use the Right Cleaning Products
Make sure that you only use products specifically made for car exteriors, as these are formulated to be gentle enough to avoid damaging delicate parts and provide the best possible results. Other cleaning products may have detergents and inadequate pH levels for car care, so use only car-care-specific products.
When it comes to waxing, be sure to use car wax anda not furniture polish or other household cleaners. Always make sure to remember to scrub extra softly around the car’s trim if you choose to wax it.
5. Monitor Your Tires
The air pressure recommended is on the tire placard inside the driver-side door. It’s best to monitor your tire pressure at least once a month.
Having the wrong amount of tire pressure can cause serious accidents, so it’s important to monitor it continuously. If your tires show signs of excessive wear, it’s important to immediately take the necessary steps to fix them.
Follow These Car Maintenance Tips
Car maintenance is essential for the life and longevity of your new car. Implementing these tips into your regular car maintenance will help to ensure it stays looking new and usable for years to come.
Be sure to research any other additional steps you can take to maintain your car, and also remember to get regular check-ups from a qualified mechanic.
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