New Car Care Tips: 10 Things to Consider

Whether you bought a new car straight from the dealership or a used car that's new to you, it's important to take good care of it from the beginning. Not only will this help maintain the car's value, but it'll also save you money down the road by preventing costly repairs, replacements, and other issues.
While you can certainly rely on regular maintenance and services from your automotive technician, from someplace like Christian Brothers Automotive, there are also some things you can do yourself to keep your car in tip-top shape. Here are our team's top 10 tips for taking care of your new car:
1. Read the Owner's Manual
While the owner's manual is thick, full of technical jargon, and might not make for the most exciting read, it's important to take the time to familiarize yourself with it. This manual contains valuable information about your car, such as recommended maintenance schedules, proper tire pressure levels, and warning lights to look out for.
It may also have some features you didn't even know your car had, such as different driving modes or safety features. Reading the manual can help you get the most out of your car and keep it running smoothly.
2. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, is essential for keeping your car in good condition. These services are designed to prevent bigger issues from occurring down the road and can save you money in the long run.
Be sure to follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in your owner's manual and don't skip appointments with your technician. If you're unsure about what services your car needs and when, don't hesitate to ask your technician for guidance. They have the expertise to help you keep your car in top shape.
3. Keep It Clean
A clean car not only looks good, but it also helps protect its paint and interior from damage. Regularly washing and waxing your car can prevent rust, scratches, and other wear that can decrease its value. Don't forget about the interior of your car either —regularly vacuuming and wiping down surfaces will help maintain its cleanliness and prevent any build-up of dirt or grime.
Pro tip: Invest in a good quality microfiber cloth for cleaning the exterior and interior of your car. It won't leave behind any scratches or lint. Also, you may want to avoid some of those car washes that use harsh chemicals and opt for hand washing instead.
4. Protect It from the Elements
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, it's important to take extra steps to protect your car. This could include investing in a car cover or finding covered parking when possible. Harsh elements can damage the exterior and interior of your car, so taking precautions can help maintain its value.
If you have a used car that's considered a classic model, you may also want to consider storing it in a climate-controlled garage to protect it from the elements and potential theft.
5. Be Mindful of How You Drive
Your driving habits can have a negative impact on your car’s health. Aggressive driving, such as quick acceleration and hard braking, can put unnecessary strain on your car's engine and other components. This can lead to increased wear and tear over time.
Instead, try to drive smoothly and avoid revving your engine unnecessarily. Not only is this better for your car, but it can also improve fuel efficiency. Plus, it's safer for you and other drivers on the road.
6. Check Your Tires Regularly
Your tires play a crucial role in the safety and performance of your car. Be sure to check them regularly for proper tire pressure, tread depth, and any signs of damage. If you notice uneven wear or low pressure, bring your car to a mechanic to have it looked at.
It's also important to rotate your tires according to the recommended schedule in your owner's manual. This helps distribute wear evenly across all four tires and can extend their lifespan.
7. Keep an Eye on Warning Lights
Modern cars are equipped with warning lights that indicate when something is wrong. Even if your car drove great during your test drive, there's a chance that some warning lights may illuminate on your dashboard after a few weeks of driving. Don't ignore these warnings, as they could indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Take your car to an automotive mechanic as soon as possible if any warning lights come on. Even if it's something minor, it's better to get it checked out and fixed sooner rather than later.
8. Use the Right Fuel
Different cars require different types of fuel, so it's important to use the right one for your car. Using the wrong type of fuel can cause damage to your engine and decrease performance.
Check your owner's manual or the label near your gas tank to determine what type of fuel is recommended for your car. It may be tempting to save a few dollars by using a lower grade of fuel, but it could cost you more in the long run if it causes damage.
9. Don't Overload Your Car
While your car may have plenty of space for all your belongings, overloading it can put unnecessary strain on its suspension and braking systems. This can lead to increased wear and tear, as well as decreased fuel efficiency.
Be mindful of how much weight you're carrying in your car and try to keep it within the recommended limit set by the manufacturer. If you need to haul heavy items, consider investing in a trailer instead.
10. Be Prepared for Emergencies
No matter how well you take care of your car, unexpected emergencies can still happen. It's always a good idea to be prepared for these situations by keeping an emergency kit in your car. This should include items like jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, a flashlight, and basic tools.
You may also want to consider investing in roadside assistance coverage or having the contact information for a trusted tow truck company on hand.
Let Christian Brothers Automotive Get Your New Ride in Check
To keep your new car running smoothly and looking its best, having a reliable technician is essential. At Christian Brothers Automotive, our skilled team is here to handle all your maintenance and repair needs.
We’re committed to helping you protect your investment and safety on the road. It all begins with a free courtesy inspection to assess your vehicle and recommend a tailored maintenance schedule to keep it performing at its best.
Find your local Christian Brothers Automotive auto shop and request an appointment today. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have about your new car!