It is exciting to have a new vehicle that still has the brand new smell and few miles on it. However, it can be a big responsibility to keep up the new automobile so that it stays looking nice and running smooth. If you wish to avoid the expenses of major car repair, you should do a few little things to maintain the vehicle just after you buy it.

The easiest place to start is to ensure there is always oil in the engine. You should do this about once per month, always when the engine is cool, so only after it has been sitting for a few hours. Also, make sure it is on a flat surface, such as a garage instead of a sloping driveway, so you can get a good read of the oil level. Pull out the dipstick, wipe off the excess oil with a paper towel, and then place it back into the compartment. If, when you pull it out to read it, the oil is below the lower mark on the dipstick, you need to add more. Remember to also get the oil changed every few months. The traditional recommendation of getting it changed every 3000 miles or so has apparently become outdated, but it is still advised that you get it done about every 5000 miles to keep car repair at bay.

Another way to keep the vehicle in good condition is to ensure the tires are always properly filled. Many newer cars come with a sensor that tells you when a tire is low, at which point you can simply stop at a gas station to fill it. However, if your auto does not offer this feature, you can check the pressure yourself with a tire gauge. Be sure to do this about once a month, perhaps when you check the fluid levels. Doing so may keep you from having to get new tires very often, which can be quite expensive.

While you might be quick to keep the outside of the vehicle clean, you should also pay attention to the cleanliness of the engine. It is advised that you take a damp rag and wipe down the engine occasionally to keep it looking nice and free of dirt or debris. If there is buildup of gunk around the battery, which tends to occur over time, you can remove it with an old toothbrush or a scrubbing brush. Though these steps are not required, you will be glad you performed them when it comes time to sell the auto. Plus, there is less of a chance of dirt or dust getting in the nooks and crannies and eventually causing any damage to the parts.

Performing these small but important tasks will go a long way toward making your auto look and feel new for years. Additionally, you can avoid the costs of major car repair since keeping up with the little tasks for years can ensure that it is always running nicely, making you proactive instead of reactive.