Become a First-Time Car Owner in Philadelphia, PA

Sep 30, 2020

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Now that you’ve decided to buy your first car, it’s important to complete these three vital steps. Continue reading to learn more.

First-Time Buyer Checklist

Schedule Your First Inspection

The first step after buying a car is to find a local mechanic and schedule service for a thorough inspection. This will help you determine if this is a mechanic you can trust for future services and will also expose any surprises that might be lying under the hood of your car.

By taking this step as soon as you purchase your car, you can request any crucial repairs that need to be taken care of before your car warranty expires. It will also be a great opportunity for you to ask your mechanic for a general maintenance schedule so you can prepare accordingly.

Familiarize Yourself With Your Owners Manual

An owners manual is more than just something that should sit in the glove compartment. It provides valuable information to help you care for, maintain, and repair your car if the need arises.

If you’re in a crisis situation in need of guidance, it is important that you know where to find the necessary information in your owners manual. This could include anything from indicator lights to the location of your spare tire. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the contents now so that you’ll be able to react accordingly if necessary

Create a Maintenance Schedule

The longevity and quality of your car largely depends on how well you maintain your car. Routine maintenance such as an oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection, and filter replacement are non negotiable if you want to keep your car running safely.

In addition to these mechanical maintenance tasks, you’ll also want to ensure you maintain the cleanliness of your car, inside and out. Dirt, grime, and salt can build up on the undercarriage of your car which will develop rust. Without properly washing and waxing the paint on your car, it will become dull, lifeless, and may even begin to peel off.

Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for the specific make and model of your car. When in doubt, consult with your owners manual or with a trusted mechanic.