The idea of buying your first car is something everyone looks forward to, especially the young ones. Nothing feels better about having your own ride and traveling to places without a friend or a family member to drive you. In some states, many are scrambling to get a new SUV for their family trips. They turn to auto centers that offer for-sale new Subaru cars or other available car models in different horsepower, engine sizes, fuel mileage, and other features.
While there’s always an exciting feeling about buying your first car, the experience can be quite confusing and intimidating as well. Cars come with the most complicated features. These can be the engine, transmission, battery, radiator, and brakes. You also have to consider your lifestyle, price, brand, technology, and other special features before acquiring one.
With all the many considerations about your first new car, it’s natural for new car owners to encounter mistakes along the way. These problems vary from prioritizing the car’s appearance and buying less fuel-efficient vehicles. To know more about other first-time experiences, we’ll delve into the top things everyone should have learned before buying their first car.
Prioritize fuel efficiency
Most young drivers these days are opting for premium gas for their cars. The truth is, using premium gasoline in any engine that requires regular gasoline has no significant improvement in fuel economy and acceleration.
Some high-performance cars recommend or require premium gas, but this only applies to drivers who prioritize vehicle performance over fuel efficiency. Otherwise, it’s better to opt for a regular engine running on regular unleaded gasoline and save more money. In the end, it’s not worth burning cash for an unnecessary costly fuel.
Take recalls seriously
When buying your first car, you’re likely considering its price and fuel efficiency. While they’re equally important, many buyers tend to forget about recalls in the process. Failure to research previous vehicle recalls can lead to considerable regrets in the long run.
If you have a list of cars you consider buying, conduct proper research on each vehicle model. If the maker announces a new recall, make sure to take it seriously. Bring the car to the dealership and have it fixed.
Waxing isn’t just for extra shine
Washing your new car for the first time is an exhilarating filling. You take time removing traces of dirt and dust using car cleaning products you just bought. Car cleaning products come in different types: foam car wash, degreaser, detailer, cleaner wax, and tire shine gel. But if there’s one thing many drivers forget, it would be to finish a car wash job with a wax coat.
When driving, our cars get exposed to different outdoor elements, such as chemicals and road salt, which accelerates rust and corrosion. Waxing a vehicle right after washing provides a protective layer for its painted surface against outdoor elements. If you rarely drive your car and it is always stored in the garage, wax it at least two times every year. Otherwise, if you don’t have a garage and you frequently drive your car regardless of weather conditions, make sure to wax it often.
A great tip is to bring your vehicle to a car wash professional now and then. They will pay serious attention to certain parts you often neglect during washing. A car wash service uses spray tools to clean the undercarriage and remove road salt from the exposed components, such as exhaust systems and hydraulic brakes. This technique will avoid possible damages over repeated use.
Wrong tire inflation
An overinflated tire leads to reduced traction and irregular wear and tear, while an underinflated one can damage the wheels and skid longer on wet surfaces. Every car owner should be aware of their tires’ maximum pounds per square inch (PSI) to keep them fully inflated.
Properly inflated tires last longer since they wear more evenly. They also help save money and fuel, reduce emissions, and be less likely to fail at high speeds. When checking tires, make sure to use a pressure gauge or the ones offered in gasoline stations. This is important if your vehicle has an existing tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Making mistakes is nothing to be ashamed of, especially if it’s your first time encountering a major car failure. Still, it’s essential to be aware of the good practices when buying a new car to avoid making serious mistakes in the long run. So consider following the suggestions above, and congratulations on your first car!
