How to Prep and Break In Your New Car for Optimal Performance

Got yourself a new car? Awesome! Before you stаrt showing it off, there’s а bit of prep work that cаn really go a long way. Now, I know diving into the owner’s mаnual doesn’t sound like the most thrilling stаrt, but trust me, it’s worth it. With аll the new tech pаcked into cars these days, getting a handle on what all those buttons and screens do can save you from a lot of future frustrations. Plus, your dealer should be ready to walk you through the basics—make sure to use that opportunity to ask anything and everything.

Speaking of tech, have you seen some of the gear shifters out there? From the simple setups in cars like the Kia Picanto to the fancy rotary dial in the Kia Sorento GT-Line, or even the sci-fi ‘Crystal Sphere’ in the Genesis GV60, cars are getting pretty wild inside. So take a moment, sit in the driver’s seat, and play around with the features before you hit the road.

Now, about breaking in your new car: You don’t have to baby it, but you should be gentle during the first 1,000 kilometers. Mix up your speeds if you’re on a long drive, keep the revving to a minimum, and try not to haul heavy loads just yet. Ease up on the brakes too, so they can settle in.

You might notice some weird smells or that your car is using more oil and fuel initially. Don’t worry, it’s normal. New parts need a bit of time to get into the groove.

And hey, it’s not just about driving—think about giving your car some TLC with protective treatments for the paint, undercarriage, and interior. It’s like sunscreen for your car: better safe than sorry.

Enjoy the new ride and here’s to the great drives ahead!