So, you’ve found yourself a new ride, that’s fantastic! But remember, with great cars come great responsibility. Knowing how to care for a new car is more than just ensuring it looks good; it’s about preserving its performance and longevity. Whether you’re a first-time owner or a seasoned driver, staying on top of maintenance is critical. Here’s our guide to maintaining your new car’s health.
Master Your Machine with the Owner’s Manual
Have you ever had that moment when you stare at a button and wonder, “What does this do?” Fear not, intrepid owner! The mystical tome called the owner’s manual holds all the secrets. It’s easy to overlook the owner’s manual, but it’s a goldmine of information about your car’s features, recommended fluids, and maintenance schedules. These manuals are the best place to start when learning how to care for your new car.
If you’re like most and have lost the manual almost immediately after buying a car, it will be accessible online if you visit the manufacturer’s website.
Tyre Tales
Let’s talk about the unsung heroes: your tyres. They connect your car and the road, so their well-being is non-negotiable. One of the most important things to keep in mind is tyre pressure. If your tyres are underinflated, they can negatively affect your car’s efficiency and wear out more quickly. On the other hand, overinflated tyres can lead t
Pamper Your Ride’s Exterior
Spending plenty of time cleaning the exterior of your car isn’t vanity; it’s vital to caring for your new car. Regular car washes and proper washing techniques help preserve your vehicle’s exterior integrity. Washing your car road gunk can wreck your paint if left unchecked.
Remember, a little wax goes a long way in shielding your ride from UV rays, oxidation, and environmental pollutants. And don’t forget those windows and lights! Keeping them clean ensures you can see clearly on the road.
Zen and the Art of Safe Driving
Buckle up, buttercup! Safe driving isn’t just about avoiding road rage (though that helps). It’s about treating your new car with tender love and care. Gentle braking and smooth acceleration are always preferred over abrupt stops and pedal-to-the-metal acceleration (no matter how fun it may be).
Oh, and steering clear of those potholes and rough roads is a good idea, too! They aren’t just a pain for drivers; they can mess up your tyres, suspension, and pretty much anything under your car. Consistently practising these safe driving habits minimises wear and tear, preserving your vehicle’s showroom condition for longer.
Things You Should Never Do in a New Car
Don’t Put the Pedal to the Metal
When driving your new car, it’s important to avoid “jack rabbit starts”, the kind you’ll tend to do when that red light finally turns green. These sudden and aggressive starts can harm your engine, especially during the break-in phase of the first 1,000 km. Flooring it like this can cause damage to your engine, specifically to the piston rings. It can also compromise any imperfections that may be present from the manufacturer, leading to additional issues due to hot spots.
Don’t Max Out the RPMs
While the urge to let your new car stretch its legs and max out those revolutions can be overwhelming, we advise against it. When it comes to RPMs, think low rather than high for your new car unless factory technicians have specifically broken it in. The exact guideline will change depending on the automaker, but a general rule is to stay under 3,500 to 4,500 for the first 150 to 500 km.
Don’t Use Cruise Control
Cruise control can be convenient when embarking on a long road trip. However, if you have a new engine, it’s better to vary the RPMs as you drive. Avoiding cruise control will help ensure the engine is properly worn in by maintaining a constantly changing load and speed.
Don’t Do a Lot of Short Trips
When you go out in your new car, giving your engine enough time to warm up properly is important. Failing to do so can affect the performance of your engine, especially within the first 1,000 km. It’s best to avoid trips of five km or less when the engine is cold, if possible.
Keep that Car Showroom-New
If you want to keep your car showroom new for as long as possible, follow our tips and heed our warnings on how to care for a new car. With the right approach, you can set your new car up for the long haul.
If you’re in the market for a new car, check out the Portage Cars range online. We have an extensive range ofNZ EV cars, hybrids, SUVs, and much more.
