If you recently passed your driving test with flying colours and are currently looking to buy your first car, this article was written with you in mind. It is an exciting time when you first taste the freedom and independence that car ownership brings and with that in mind, here are a few tips for first-time car owners.
- Read & understand the user manual – Whether new or second-hand, the best way to become familiar with your newly acquired vehicle is to read the user’s manual. Start with controls, making sure that you understand what each gauge represents, then take a look at the servicing section, which is usually at the rear of the manual. If the car is used, there should be a history of all servicing in this section, which tells you the car has been properly maintained.
- Get a spare key cut – Contact the best auto locksmiths in London and have them create a spare ignition key, which you may never use, but if you do lock yourself out of the car, you won’t have to call out an auto locksmith. They key is probably chipped, which is why you need a key specialist that can include the chip.
- Regular maintenance – Vehicle servicing is done according to mileage; the average car needs to be serviced every 5,000-8,000 miles (see owner’s manual) and tasks include changing the engine oil and filter, plus checking all belts for correct tension and all fluid levels should be checked and topped up where necessary. You are advised to take the car to a garage that is manufacturer approved, as they fully understand the vehicles. Click here interesting information about Tesla cars.
- Check for rust-proofing – If the car has already been rust-proofed, you have nothing to worry about, but if it hasn’t, this is something to consider. This will ensure that the chassis and under bodywork is protected, which can add years to its lifespan.
- The importance of TLC – Your car is not just a machine that gets you from A to B and if you treat the vehicle with some TLC, it will always be ready when you need to go somewhere. When something needs fixing, be prompt, as this prevents additional problems from surfacing.
Vehicle ownership brings with it responsibility and if you are careful with the car, its resale value will be high.
