3 Ways You Can Be a Responsible Car Owner

When you buy your first car, brand new or second hand, the rules of being a responsible owner are the same. Even a student driver who shares the family car has to do their part with proper road etiquette and car maintenance. Here are three things you can do to be a responsible car owner:

• Update your paperwork and keep all relevant receipts in the car

Whenever you change your address, phone number, or your car changes hands, remember to update your paperwork to avoid situations that can quickly escalate into costly problems. Missing notices and failing to pay overdue fines means more paperwork in the future that will take away your free time and cash. Err on the side of caution.

Besides updating your information, remember to keep items like your licence, insurance summary, and old maintenance receipts in your car. You may not need them on a day to day basis, but having them on hand makes your rare trips to the service station or discussion with the police a lot easier. When they ask about your last inspection or service work done, you do not have to scramble for an answer. Keeping copies in your car also helps you organise your information; no need to sift through old receipts and documents to get the information you need.

• Routinely have your car inspected

Just because your car runs, it does not mean it is fine. After three years of use (for brand new cars) you need to get the MOT test annually, the test checks if your vehicle has any outstanding issues that may affect vehicle safety and emissions. If you live in the area, you can look for MOT services Horndean garages and service centres offer. When you get the results of the inspection, try to fix the areas that need work. If you are good to go, do not forget to keep the information inside the car.

Inspections are not just done annually because they are required. It can be done when there are external factors that might affect your car. If you notice anything unusual about how your car runs, have it inspected. Your brakes can get worn out, so if it feels off do not wait for your next MOT test to have them checked.

• Stay on top of areas that require maintenance

Besides washing your car, there are a couple of other basic things you should do regularly to maintain your vehicle. Small adjustments when necessary are always cheaper than waiting for a problem to affect other parts of your car. Check your tyre air pressure, air conditioning filters, and vital fluids like oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. You can slowly learn to do this yourself. Keep a kit in your car in case of emergencies that can easily be fixed.

The list covers the responsibilities you have for your vehicle but being a responsible car owner extends to your behaviour on the road too. While you tick off all the boxes to make sure your car is in great shape, remember that you must be aware while driving.

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