Taking care of your new Nissan Altima is more than just ensuring the oil is changed on a regular basis. From day one, there are several tasks that you can do to keep your car running at its best and extend its life. In addition to following your owner's manual, here are some maintenance steps you should take.
Observe the Break-In Period
Your new car needs a break-in period in which it becomes accustomed to regular use. It is also a chance for you to learn more about your car, such as how it handles in certain conditions. For the health of your car, do not rush the break-in period. Rushing it could lead to complications.
Part of not rushing the period is avoiding excessive speeding. Refer to your owner's manual to determine what the recommended speed is for your particular car and to learn how long you should observe the break-in period. In addition to this, avoid using your car for towing.
Take Special Precautions in the Winter
The winter months can be strenuous for any model of car. Therefore, it is important that you take extra care to look out for dangers that could have an impact on how your car operates.
For instance, take the time to inspect the area beneath and around your car before driving it. During the cold weather months, it is not uncommon for small animals to seek shelter under and around a car. Unfortunately, this could result in damage for your car if the animal is not removed before moving the car.
Lubricate the Car's Door Latches
Door latches might not rank high on your list of maintenance tasks, but taking care of them is far more important than you probably realize. Over time, the latches can become stiff or squeaky due to exposure to various elements, such as cold air. When the latches are too stiff, they could break. Squeaky latches can be annoying.
Keeping the latches lubricated can help prevent this problem. When selecting a lubricant, look for one that is lithium-based. The oil will lubricate the latch while also protecting the components from the elements.
Talk to your Nissan dealer to learn of other maintenance steps you can take with your new car. He or she can not only provide you with guidance on taking care of your car, but also help you setup future maintenance on the car, such as oil changes.
