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You have worked hard at learning to drive and passing the tests. And you can now enjoy the freedom of the open road. Road trips, no more waiting for buses, and ferrying your elderly relatives to the supermarket is now your life. However, like most, your first car is probably second-hand, so reducing further damage becomes necessary.
Take it to the Mechanics
Except if you’re a mechanic, you can only do so much independently. Assuming you aren’t, you should take your car to a trained and qualified professional from time to time. Your used car dealer has great mechanics who check the vehicle before buying it. However, you have to keep it maintained. A real expert will see problems before they become real problems, so you can fix them before they get out of control. There are places, like the UK, where car checks are required by law, such as MOT testing.
Perform FLOWER Checks
Although there are many parts to your car, some are essential for its proper operation, maintenance, and safety. Thanks to “FLOWER” inspections, you don’t have to be an expert to check these components:
- Fuel: Make sure you have enough gas or EV juice for your trip.
- Lights: Check your headlights, brakes, and blinkers.
- Oil: Make sure you have enough oil for your engine.
- Water: You need water to cool your engine.
- Electrics: Check that the engine battery isn’t dead and everything is working.
- Rubber: Check your tires for the tread.
Don’t forget to check your car before you drive. Furthermore, you’re more likely to catch little issues before they become big ones and can thus take care of them yourself or by calling a pro.
Use Your Garage
Keeping your car as safe as possible will save you money. The majority of people who have a garage don’t use it for its true purpose, which is to protect their cars. So if you have a garage, use it. Garages keep the weather out, dirt and dust out, and thieves and criminals off. You can cover your driveway with a covering if you don’t have a garage. Parking is also essential. For example, falling leaves, branches, and bird poop will damage your paintwork. And as you may be aware, paintwork doesn’t come cheap.
Drive Appropriately
You may not realize it, but the way you drive your car has a massive impact on its efficiency. A new car is ruined by reckless driving. A vehicle gets stressed out with heavy braking, rough turns, and excessive speeding. It can be disastrous if you don’t have the proper driving technique for a new car. Most road vehicles from showrooms aren’t designed for track-style driving, so you should keep everything you learn when learning to drive in mind. Take it slow, treat it with respect, and don’t push it to the limit.
Get to Know Your Car
There are a lot of differences between cars, despite the same mechanics. You should spend some time learning how your car works. The technology is different from one manufacturer to another. No matter what kind of car you drive, getting familiar with its systems helps. For instance, some car manufacturers use touch screens, and others have dials for in-car systems. Additionally, some modern vehicles also have special startup procedures for security. Always consult your car’s user manual and get to know the systems well before you drive.