Buying a new car is an exciting moment for Indian families, but many owners unknowingly make small mistakes during the initial months of ownership. These mistakes may not cause immediate problems, but over time, they can affect comfort, maintenance costs, and even the car’s lifespan.
One common mistake families make is ignoring proper running-in during the early days. New engines need gentle driving initially, but many owners start long highway trips or aggressive driving too soon. This can impact engine smoothness in the long run. Driving calmly during the first few thousand kilometres helps the car settle better.
Another mistake is overloading the car frequently. Family trips often involve heavy luggage, extra passengers and roof carriers. While cars are designed to handle load, continuous overloading puts stress on suspension, tyres, and brakes. Over time, this reduces ride comfort and increases maintenance costs.
Many families also delay regular servicing, especially if the car feels fine. Skipping scheduled services can lead to unnoticed wear and tear. Timely servicing helps identify small issues before they turn into expensive repairs and keeps the car reliable for daily and highway use.
Tyre care is often neglected by new owners. Incorrect tyre pressure affects ride quality, fuel efficiency and braking performance. Families who travel frequently on highways should regularly check tyre pressure and alignment to ensure safety and comfort.
Another common mistake is relying too heavily on features without understanding them. Modern cars come with many safety and convenience features, but not knowing how they work can reduce their effectiveness. Spending time understanding basic functions improves both safety and driving confidence.
In practical terms, owning a family car is not just about driving it, but maintaining it responsibly. Avoiding these common mistakes helps families enjoy smoother journeys, lower ownership stress and a longer-lasting car experience.
