Special care for your new machine

Lead in: A new car needs extra care and attention to deliver high performance in the long run. The nature of maintenance in the early days of the car differs from the routine maintenance that follows later. Read on to know more about maintaining your brand new vehicle.

So you finally bought your dream machine! After the time-consuming process of research, selection of the right model and negotiating and closing the deal, you must be proud of owning a brand new automobile.

Now that you are a proud car owner, you need to ensure that you keep the vehicle in perfect condition. You can reduce your trips to the service centre or garage by following a few guidelines for your car right from the start. If you enjoy the glide of driving in a new car and the feel of fresh interiors follow the pointers mentioned below to keep your car in a pristine condition for a longer time.

• The first 1,000 kilometers of a new car are crucial. Drive at the optimum speed recommended in the car owner's manual and avoid speeding more than that, even on highways.
• A brand new vehicle also has special servicing requirements in the beginning. Adhere to the service cycle mentioned in the car manual, especially the first one.
• Drive efficiently by going easy on the throttle and avoiding bad roads with potholes.
• Based on your car's model, refuel with the most appropriate type of fuel to enjoy good performance and mileage. For example, some high-end automobiles come with a premium fuel recommendation.
• While parking your car, leave ample space on either side. By avoiding tight spots for parking you will reduce the chances of other vehicles leaving a dent or scratch on your brand new machine.
• The first few services from the authorised car service centre may be complimentary. Take full advantage of such services to keep your vehicle well-maintained.

After spending a bomb on a new automobile, you would want to go easy on additional costs of repair and maintenance. These small steps help you achieve the double goal of caring for your car and avoiding repair costs.

The following are a few easy tips on maintaining your new vehicle:

• Check the oil level every quarter
• Refill the brake, coolant, windshield washer and transmission fluid regularly
• Clean the engine every two years to avoid accumulation of dirt
• Inspect the tyres periodically
• Fix scratches or dents as soon as possible
• Wash and wax the exterior to retain the sheen of the new car paint
• Pay attention to the car maintenance tips given by experts.
• In addition to the do-it-yourself maintenance tips, take your car to your car service centre or local garage for a regular checkup.

Incorporating these steps into your routine along with car maintenance tips from experts will not only keep the car in a pristine condition, but also prolong its life. So go ahead, drive your prized possession and enjoy all the attention and jealous looks it gets you!