Purchasing your first car is a critical decision to make, especially when buying online in a world ravaged by a Pandemic.
Having a car might be overwhelming at first, but understanding the perplexity of the game will help you win in the long run. There’s a lot more to learn as a new car owner amidst the rules of driving and your vehicle’s safety. So, here are seven (07) foremost things you should know.
1. Car Problems
Your car is an essential asset that you rely on every day in your life. Neglecting malfunctions and issues can put the car and your life in danger. Usually, car owners who are accustomed to their vehicle’s daily problems ignore them, which results in costly repairs in the future. To avoid such situations ahead, inspect your car periodically to detect and fix the issues at hand. Read our curation of car problems that should not be ignored for a comprehensive guide on individual malfunctions.
2. Car Fluids
Automotive fluids are a fundamental component of the engine that ensures its utmost performance. From coolant to engine oil, verify periodically if they are at proper levels. In case of a low fluid level, your engine can heat up or be damaged. Here are the five most important fluids you should always keep an eye on.
- Engine Oil
- Coolant
- Power Steering Fluid
- Brake Fluid
- Transmission Fluid
3. Owner’s Manual & Documents
If you still haven’t read your car owner’s manual, here’s your last warning to soak it in. Yes, it’s very important as it’s informative and contains all major and minor details regarding your car like the maintenance schedule, safety features, and more. It will tell you about how it works the best if you retain the following conditions. Therefore, sparing some time to read it is the best thing you can do for your car, especially as a new owner.
Also, remember to keep your car’s registration certificate and insurance proof with you while traveling. There’s no exception in this case since it’s imperative, especially when pulled over by traffic enforcement.
4. Finding a Mechanic
First, you need to find a good mechanic for your car, and from this, we mean that you’ll have to consider the same mechanic every time your vehicle faces a malfunction. A relationship between a car and its mechanic is what only a car owner can maintain. Sustaining this relationship will avoid failed attempts of fixtures from different mechanics, as your initial mechanic will know your car’s history and functioning overall. So, as a new owner, it is up to you to choose the best mechanic and stay loyal to it.
5. Emergency Kit
A car emergency kit is what you need for the unexpected. With the right emergency kit, you can control the adverse effects of the unforeseen. Pre-preparing for the worst possible, we’ve assembled all the essential supplies you’ll need as a new car keeper.
- First Aid Kit
- Seatbelt Cutter
- Window Breaker
- Phone Charger
- Emergency Car Battery Charger
- Tow Rope
- Red Flares
- An Inflated Tire, Wheel Wrench, and a Tripod jack
- Jumper Cables
- Tool Kit and/or a Multipurpose Utility Tool
- Flashlight with Extra Batteries
- Non-perishable Food Options
- Water
- Duct Tape
- Fire Extinguisher
Extras for Weather:
- Snowbrush
- Shovel
- Windshield Washer Fluid
- Rain Coat
6. Tire Pressure
Initially, cars came with a spare tire for future mishaps. Now, it’s replaced with inflator kits to avoid additional weight and hassle. Low tire pressure can decrease your car’s overall performance by placing extra weight on it, which can result in damaged tires and car as well. Since this is something you can do on your own, make sure to keep all your tires inflated to save your time and money both.
7. Car Maintenance
Never missing out on your car’s maintenance schedule will be our foremost advice for you. Even if your vehicle doesn’t seem to have any issues, go for a regular check-up no matter what. As mentioned before, never forget to inspect it yourself timely. Refer to your owner’s manual regarding the best maintenance time and product preferences that are best for your car, for example, the right engine oil or brake fluid. Thorough maintenance will keep your car’s condition perfect and the engine as healthy as ever.
It must be a relief to have your sought-after car at home now, but now is the time to keep all your senses active if you wish to take your car for the long run.