Go easy on your new car. Expert tips.

Congratulations on your new car! Being able to afford such an expensive asset in Singapore means you have well and truly arrived!

But before you rest on your laurels, there are some things you should take note of:

Examine it carefully

Before you leave your car dealership, go over your car carefully. You need to make sure it is in working order. Doing so will help you avoid unexpected car repairs and disappointments along the road. Sounds obvious but you’d be surprised…

Here’s a checklist to help you along:

*Check the locks and make sure they work

*Inspect the lights, wipers, signals and air-conditioner

*Check that you have the required documentation

*Go on a test drive before making the full payment, whether it is for a new or used car

Go easy on your car

Get your engines off to a roaring start by properly breaking in your car.

Here are some rules to follow:

*Avoid flooring your gas pedal in stop and go traffic (or at traffic lights) as it can harm your engine before you reach the 1,600 km breaking in mark.

*Avoid driving only short distances during your initial couple of thousand kilometres. This is so that your engine is properly warmed up to prevent poor engine performance down the line.

*Keep your RPM below the halfway point of the redline and zero for the first few hundred kilometres. This means you should avoid using cruise control until you fully break in your engine (it can be helpful to drive with alternating speeds).

*Follow your car's manual on how to properly break in your car.

*Perform routine maintenance at least once a year.

*Get your oil changed around the 150m mark.

*Get to know the noises your car makes so you can identify when it’s not working correctly.

Get the necessary accessories

Equip yourself with the necessary accessories for accidents or car-related emergencies such as: a First-Aid kit, flashlight, duct tape, WD-40, jumper cables and a spare tyre (along with its required accessories).

For extra protection, you can also buy accident-related accessories such as a dashcam or seatbelt cutter. Finally, store your documents and car manual in the glove compartment for easy reference. 

Budget Direct Insurance
No-Nonsense, money saving cover for your car