6 common mistakes that newbie car owners make

Just got your first car? Avoid these mistakes

In parenting, there's a saying that you should let your kids make their own mistakes. If they trip, don't pick 'em up. If they cry, don't baby them. It's all part of growing up.

While it's true that such methods build character, the same cannot be said when it comes to owning cars. One mistake can have damaging effects and can be very costly. To prevent such things from happening, every action regarding the car must be considered carefully right from the start.

For the first-time car owner, it can be daunting with all kinds of car accessories and wrong information posted on the internet which only makes matters all the more confusing. All this wrong information circulating around is largely to blame for why some new car owners commit simple mistakes, causing premature car repair or worse, irreversible damage. In this article, we will show the most common mistakes and practices that some first-time car owners are guilty of, and offer advice on how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring the Owner’s Manual

Reading the car owner’s manual is the most fundamental thing when owning a car. Not only does it contain all the necessary information on how to properly operate the car, but because not all cars are the same.

Take the time to read and familiarize yourself with all the switches, warning lamps, instrument panels, and other basic functions by reading the manual. It would be best to do the familiarization while inside the car, to actually get a better feel of the functions and becomes easier to remember. Doing this will keep you from asking all sorts of basic questions from car groups. Chances are, you don't know for certain if the answer you're getting is wrong or right, which could lead to a costly mistake. In such cases, the manual will be your bible for salvation. 

2. Over-accessorizing

Just like being in a candy store, going to a car accessory shop is highly tempting and can wreak havoc on the budget. Heck, you don't even have to go out because even just logging onto a shopping app or the classifieds on social media has plenty of temptation already.

A new owner can easily get carried away and go into an uncontrollable shopping spree with all kinds of unnecessary add-ons. These range from window visors, door trim protectors, chrome headlamp/taillight trims, and a whole lot more that’s really not needed. Don't just add accessories for the sake of adding accessories. There should be a purpose behind any add-on.

In my opinion, a good upgrade that would yield better value for money includes a good security alarm, better-sounding speakers, or better yet, a nice wheel and tire upgrade.

3. Neglecting Preventive Maintenance Schedules (PMS)

Some newbie car owners lead busy lives that they neglect to take their cars in for servicing. What they fail to realize is that an integral part of owning a car is taking it to the car dealership for service/maintenance procedures at regular intervals.

There are valid and proven reasons why proper and official service garages (casa or otherwise) inspect your car based on schedules: to check parts that wear out. Doing so ensures that it operates properly and by checking for worn-out parts to be replaced as needed. This is important while the car still falls under the warranty period.

Check the car owner’s manual for the recommended PMS schedule which must be strictly followed, so as not to void the car manufacturer's warranty and help keep the car running trouble-free.

4. Skipping oil changes

Without an oil change, dirt and grime can eventually form inside the engine and cause major damage. Changing the engine oil during its recommended service interval allows it to properly lubricate the internal engine parts and keep it running clean. Regularly check the engine oil level using the dipstick under the hood. Remember to follow the car manufacturer’s recommendations as to what kind of oil to use and when to change it.

5. Not bothering to clean

Just like routine maintenance, most new car owners forget to wash their cars. Aside from their hectic schedules, the unpredictable weather doesn't provide motivation either. What they don't realize is that not being able to clean the car on a regular basis can harm the paint finish. This can be a challenge for those who don't have access to a proper garage leaving it exposed to the elements.

Keeping your car clean isn’t just for curbside appeal, with regular car washing, not only does it look better, but helps eliminate harmful contaminants that can cause corrosion as well as abrasive material (e.g. sand, dirt) that can permanent paint defects. Don't forget, keeping it clean also includes cleaning the interior as well.  

6. Skimping on consumable parts

This may surprise you, but a lot of new car owners are shocked to learn that certain parts of cars are considered consumable, and often these things get neglected. That's just the way it goes with motoring. There are things that need to be replaced regularly, but not necessarily at the car dealership or casa. There are a lot of consumable car parts that can be DIY’d or brought to any auto repair shop.

Ranking high on the list of neglected parts are wiper blades and tires. Worn wiper blades can not only impair visibility but also damage the windshield. Replacing the wiper blades every year can help prevent permanent wiper scratches on the windshield. The same goes for the tires; check if they are due for replacement based on the tire manufacturing date or the tire wear indicator hump located on the tire grooves.

Bottom Line

Owning a car means being responsible for its maintenance and general upkeep. This includes taking time off from your busy schedule to take it in for servicing and check up on parts that require replacement. Doing so will help maintain and prolong the life of the car and prevent unwanted breakdowns. When it comes to adding car accessories and upgrading components, it's always a good idea to do some research beforehand and look up any reviews about it before making a splurge.