10 Things Every First-Time Car Owner Should Do

Between the rules of the road, traffic etiquette, and vehicle safety, there’s a lot for new drivers to learn. But there’s also a lot for first-time car owners to know. Below are 10 pieces of advice for new owners.

Know your dashboard lights

Your dashboard is full of lights that indicate various types of warnings about your vehicle like oil levels, tire pressure, battery health, and more. They’re all important, and few are actually labeled with words.

Change your driving habits

The way you drive your car can help you save money on gas and maintenance while extending the overall life of your tires and the vehicle itself.

Embrace clean

The only thing better than cleaning a car is keeping it clean in the first place.

Know how to change a tire

There are many car maintenance skills you should learn, but knowing how to change a tire is the one that can get you out of some of the worst of jams.

Get in the habit of regular maintenance

Speaking of maintenance, get in the habit of having oil changes, tire rotations, and car washes performed at regular intervals.

Study your owner’s manual.

Your owner’s manual is chock-full of helpful information about your car. Read it from cover to cover, and then read it again.

Join a motor club

Clubs like AAA and Better World offer roadside assistance and discounts on travel and accommodations, and are great resources for both new and experienced car owners alike.

Organize your glove compartment

Your car registration, insurance, and owner’s manual are the centerpieces of your glove compartment. Learn what you should keep in there and organize it accordingly.

Keep records

Keep a log of your maintenance receipts. It will help your mechanic get to know your car better and will be a valuable asset to a buyer if you decide to one day sell the car.

Make an emergency kit

Car owners should always be prepared, so piece together an emergency kit that you can keep in your trunk at all times.

Find Your First Car at Schumacher

You can’t be a new car owner without a new car, so check out the new and used vehicle inventory at Schumacher Auto Group to find your very first set of keys. And every first-time car owner should find a trusted mechanic, so take the time to familiarize yourself with our service department, and learn how we can put you on the road and keep you there.