The 10 Things Every Car Owner Should Know

You’ve passed your driver’s test, and you now possess a driver’s license. So, how about buying a car? Whether you opt for a sporty model or a roomy SUV, there’s a lot to know about being a car owner. This article by Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Georgetown outlines the 10 best practices for maintaining your car’s appearance, performance, and reliability.

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Contents of an Owner’s Manual

If you buy a vehicle from a reputable car dealership, your sales representative will probably give you a tutorial on how the car functions. They’ll explain the vehicle’s interior and exterior features and their benefits. However, this may be a little overwhelming for you as a new driver. Reading and understanding your owner’s manual is vital to operating your car.

When To Check Your Windshield Washer Fluid

Ensure your driving visibility is clear by keeping your windshield washer fluid reservoir topped up. Dirt and debris can build up on your windshield, and a swipe of your wipers is not always enough to remove them. You can top off the reservoir yourself if you feel comfortable doing it. Underneath the hood, you’ll find a twist-off cap with a windshield image on it. Most of them are yellow or blue.

When To Change Your Oil

Next to gas, motor oil is the most essential fluid for your car’s performance, acting as a lubricant to keep the engine parts from rubbing up against one another, which helps prevent engine damage. Routine oil changes keep the engine clean.

When a service department or mechanic shop changes your oil, the technician will typically check your car’s other fluids. If you’re unsure, a professional can suggest the right type of oil for your vehicle. They also may check the functionality of your windshield wipers, turn signals, headlights, and taillights.

How To Check Your Tire Pressure

You should check your car’s tire pressure to ensure it is not too low or too high. When it’s too low, friction occurs between your tire and the ground. If it is too high, the traction will be ineffective. If your car is not equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, go to a gas station with an air pump and gauge machine.

You should check all four of your tires. Your owner’s manual will tell you where to find the recommended measurement. It may be inside the driver’s door, glove compartment, or gas tank cover. Many people think it is displayed on the tire, but this value represents the maximum allowable air pressure. The recommended pressure is generally lower than the maximum allowable.

How To Protect Your Car’s Exterior

Your car is an investment. Take pride in its appearance so you can easily trade it in or sell it in the future. Professional car detailers suggest waxing the body of your car to protect its coat from the sun. Doing this at least twice a year decreases the harsh effects of oxidation on the car’s paint.

A regular washing schedule is also important, especially during frequent snowfall. Rust can appear on the undercarriage of a car due to the salt on the roads. If possible, park your vehicle in a garage or covered driveway. Weather conditions of all kinds can cause fading paint, hard water stains, and engine damage.

How To Protect Your Car’s Interior

To easily trade in your car or resell it, you must protect its interior. Running errands around town, taking road trips, and general commuting are just some of the ways we spend time in our vehicles. Are you a smoker? If so, do you smoke in your car or allow passengers to smoke? What about eating on the go?

The inside of your car soaks up all kinds of smoke, greasy food smells, and everything in between. Some buyers will not buy a car from a smoker, regardless of how clean the interior is. Resist the urge to light up or let others light up in your car. The same behavior should extend to food.

Good Driving Habits

You can extend the life of your car by the way you drive it. Avoid taking off quickly from stop signs, driveways, and traffic lights. Doing so wastes gas and strains the vehicle’s drivetrain. You should alternate your driving speed between moderate acceleration and engine revving.

Steer clear of potholes and rough patches in the road, as they can cause irreparable damage to your tires, exhaust, and suspension. When approaching a speed bump, reduce your speed so you drive over it smoothly. This lengthens the life span of your shock absorbers and steering components.

Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car

You may experience a car breakdown at some point. Whether you run out of gas, get a flat tire, or deplete the battery, be prepared for an emergency. Keep a first aid kit, flashlight, and blanket in the vehicle. Quick snowfall can deter drivers on long stretches of highways, causing backups and long waits.

A set of jumper cables can be a saving grace when your car won’t start. Even if you are unsure how to use them properly, there may be someone around who can help. On that note, join a motor club, such as AAA, for possible roadside assistance.

Organize Your Records

Keep your car registration, insurance documents, and owner’s manual in your glove compartment. Also, hang on to your receipts from any maintenance or repairs done to your car. This will help you recall the what, when, and where regarding your car. Regular upkeep is beneficial, and keeping records will mean you have the accurate information you need.

Location of a Reputable Mechanic Shop

Some of the how-to’s on this list may be things you can learn how to do yourself. However, knowing where to find a reputable mechanic shop will save you time, money, and headaches. Mechanic shops also have the tools and supplies you don’t have immediate access to for services such as tire rotation and alignment.

A comprehensive list, huh? These are just some of the basic things every car owner should know. We at Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Georgetown are here to serve you . Stop by our dealership today, or contact our staff with any questions you may have.

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