georgelenger
New Member
How long do you plan to keep your new car? Three years, perhaps four? Maybe much longer, up to 10 years or longer if you hand your car down to your son or daughter. Today's cars are built better and last longer than cars from a generation ago. Still, if you want to keep your car for the long haul, then there are some essential steps you should take to ensure that it is properly cared for now and for as long as you own your car.All new cars have a break in period. Manufacturers may identify this in your owner's manual. If not, figure that your car should be "babied" for the first 1,000 miles. This means avoiding towing anything until after the break-in period has ended. Be easy on the brakes and shift with care. Don't run it at high speeds for prolonged miles -- save that road trip until after your car has been broken in.How often should you wash your car? That depends on several things including how often you drive it, whether it is garaged and your local weather conditions. Wash it more frequently if pollen, dirt, debris, bird poop or other "stuff" accumulates on the exterior. Wash it following a major snowfall and whenever road salt is used to keep roads clear. Salt is corrosive and can eat through steel as well as your car's coat. Wax it quarterly or more often if your car loses its shine.
