Car Care for New Owners: What Dealerships Don’t Tell You
Congratulations on your new car purchase! Whether it’s your very first car or just an upgrade from your previous one, being a new car owner can be both exciting and overwhelming. You probably researched and compared different dealerships before making your decision, and now that you have your dream car, all you want to do is take care of it. But here’s the thing – despite all the promises and warranties, there are certain things that dealerships don’t tell you about car care. And that’s what we’re going to talk about in this article. Here are some important things you need to know about car care that dealerships won’t tell you.
The Importance of Proper Car Care
We all know the importance of regular maintenance for our cars. It keeps them running smoothly and prevents costly repairs in the future. However, it’s not just about keeping your car in good condition – it’s also about safety. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 20% of car accidents are caused by neglected vehicle maintenance. This means that proper car care is not only essential for the longevity of your car, but also for your safety and that of other drivers on the road.
The Dealership’s Recommended Maintenance Schedule
When you buy a new car, the dealership provides you with a maintenance schedule and tells you to follow it. While it’s important to stick to this schedule, you also need to remember that it’s in the dealership’s best interest to keep you coming back for maintenance. This is because they make a lot of money from repairs and service appointments. So, don’t blindly follow the recommended schedule – do your research and consult with a trusted mechanic to determine if all the recommended services are necessary.
You Don’t Need to Always Use the Dealership for Maintenance
Many new car owners believe that they must always go to the dealership for maintenance to keep their warranty valid. This is not entirely true. While it’s true that some warranty coverage requires dealership maintenance, it’s not always the case. As long as you adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule and keep proper records, you can go to a third-party mechanic for maintenance and still maintain your warranty. This can potentially save you a lot of money, as dealership maintenance can be costly.
Things That Void Your Warranty
As mentioned earlier, not all warranties require dealership maintenance. However, there are certain things that can void your warranty, regardless of where you get your maintenance done. These include:
Modified Parts
If you make any modifications to your car, such as adding a new exhaust or changing the air intake, it can void your warranty. This is because these modifications can affect the performance and reliability of your car, and the dealership won’t want to be held responsible for that.
Irregular Maintenance
Skipping maintenance appointments or not following the recommended schedule can also void your warranty. If the dealership can prove that the damage to your car was caused by lack of proper maintenance, they can deny your warranty claim.
Damaged Parts
If you damage any parts of your car due to neglect or misuse, the warranty won’t cover it. This includes things like cracked windshields, dented rims, and damaged tires. So, take care of your car and avoid unnecessary expenses.
The Importance of Understanding Your Car’s Manual
One of the first things you should do after buying a new car is to familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual. This is where you’ll find all the important information about your car’s maintenance and warranty. Take the time to read through it and understand what it says. This will not only help you understand the recommended maintenance schedule but also educate you on how to take care of your car properly.
In Conclusion
Being a new car owner comes with a lot of responsibilities, and one of the most important ones is proper car care. While dealership maintenance is essential, it’s also important to remember that not all their recommendations are necessary. Do your research and consult with a trusted mechanic to ensure that you’re getting the best service for your car. Also, make sure to understand your warranty and follow the recommended maintenance schedule. This will not only keep your car in good condition but also ensure your safety on the road.
