Owning a car is a huge responsibility. You have to keep it properly maintained, pay for insurance as well as a monthly car payment if you have the purchase financed. What else should a first time car owner know about owning a car?
Modifying the Car Can Void Your Warranty
All new cars come with a three or five year warranty period. However, you can void the warranty for a variety of reasons. Making modifications to your car is an easy way to void the warranty on your engine or other parts that have been modified. If an engine modification leads to your car failing to start, you may be searching craigslist for cheap Houston Rebuilt Engines.
Always Keep an Emergency Kit Handy
An emergency kit containing blankets, water and flashlights will come in handy if your car breaks down and you are stranded. You should also keep a cell phone in your car as well as a spare tire.
Roadside Assistance Is Valuable
If you have roadside assistance, you never have to worry about not being able to drive your car ever again. Your roadside assistance entitles you to gas if your tank is empty, a jump if your car won’t start and a locksmith to get your keys if you lose them inside of your car.
Don’t Let Others Borrow Your Car
Letting other people borrow your car could have serious consequences should your car be involved in an accident. Although you won’t be held liable for hurting or killing another motorist or a pedestrian, your insurance will have to cover the costs related to the crash. Your rates could go up and you may have to pay for damage out of your own pocket depending on how much coverage you have.
Changing the Oil Every 3000 Miles Is a Waste of Time
It used to be common knowledge that you changed your oil every 3,000 miles. These days, you only have to change your oil every 7,500 miles or more. If your mechanic tells you to change your oil every 3,000 miles, you should find a new mechanic or service center to take care of your car.
Owning a car will give you a sense of independence. However, you have to know the rules of the road as well as the rules for maintaining your car if you want to keep it running for years to come.