Everyone is excited when they get to drive a brand-new vehicle. A common question is what can a person do to maintain their vehicle so it continues to run like new. Many people believe it should be gently broken in during early use. It may be a challenge to get familiar with all the gauges, switches as well as buttons when using a new vehicle on the road. It may take some time to get used to the feel of a new vehicle.
Drive Slowly
When starting to drive a new vehicle, it is important to initially drive slowly for the first ten minutes. Giving an engine some simple driving time could help a vehicle reach its top performance level sooner. If possible, a person should drive their new vehicle around a familiar neighborhood prior to taking it on the highway. This will help a person get familiar with the engine, brakes and more.
- There was a time when a new vehicle had to be carefully droven in so its engine could efficiently reach its top capabilities. Modern vehicles are now built with more tolerances. Carefully warming up the engine with an initial easy drive can still be beneficial.
- A proper warm-up can’t be achieved by idling, a vehicle must be driven.
- Going easy on a vehicle should be done for a minimum of 1,000 miles if possible.
Stop-And-Go
This type of driving can benefit by helping break in a new vehicle’s brakes and engine. Being stuck in traffic is not a pleasant experience, but it could help a new vehicle. The action of frequently stopping and starting helps smooth out a new vehicle’s rough edges as well as different engine components. This is something that should be done for the initial 1,000 miles.
Brakes
When getting used to a new car, it is best to brake earlier and more gentle. Normal driving conditions will help a new vehicle’s brakes wear evenly. It is important to limit riding the brakes or high speed stops for the initial 200 miles. The brakes of a new vehicle will feel different from what a driver is used to in a previous vehicle. Easing into stops is a good way to become accustomed to using the brakes of a new vehicle.
Test Capabilities
It is important to carefully test a new vehicle’s capabilities and not max them out. It’s okay to drive fast when conditions require it. Towing a moderate load is also okay. A new vehicle’s maximum haul or speed should not be tested at an unreasonable amount.
Oil Change
It is recommended the oil in a new vehicle be changed after 1,000 miles A new vehicle may be calibrated to go for up to 6,000 miles before the recommended first oil change takes place. A new vehicle owner should keep in mind metallic flakes may be present from the first oil removed from the vehicle. This is caused by the necessary and natural wearing down of rough edges and more. These flakes will be in a new vehicle’s oil almost right after it starts to be driven.
It is important to always drive carefully when breaking in a new vehicle. After getting used to the features, a new vehicle will be easier to drive. When a new vehicle is properly broken in, it can provide excellent service for a long time.
