Photo: uamotors
Buying a new car is often associated with a carefree period: everything shines straight from the showroom, the engine runs like clockwork, and any kind of breakdown seems impossible. Yet, after just a few months, some owners start facing unexpected issues — the engine might run irregularly, the transmission behaves strangely, or sometimes a visit to the service center becomes unavoidable. Why does this happen when the car is still brand new?
The reasons behind such problems often don’t lie in factory defects or poor assembly, but in mistakes made by owners from the very first days of use. One of the most common mistakes is using a new car only for short trips. It might seem simple enough: drive to the supermarket, drop the kids off at school, or stop at a gas station. However, these short trips don’t allow the engine and transmission to reach optimal operating temperature. As a result, harmful deposits accumulate inside the powertrain, oil circulation is insufficient, and components wear out faster. Over time, this can lead to issues like fluctuating idle RPM and other annoying symptoms. It’s much better for a new car to have regular, slightly longer drives. Even a short trip to the suburbs or a neighboring district helps all systems adapt properly, letting the engine and transmission operate under optimal conditions.
Another common mistake is aggressive driving immediately after purchase. Sudden starts, abrupt stops, sharp turns, and quick accelerations may feel tempting, especially when owners want to test the car’s capabilities. However, such stress is extremely harmful to parts that haven’t been properly broken in yet: the suspension and braking system take a hit, and the engine doesn’t have time to complete its initial running-in. As a result, the lifespan of key components shortens, and the first malfunctions can appear much earlier than expected.
It’s important to remember that the break-in period is not an outdated practice — it’s essential for any modern car. Gentle, careful handling during the first few months helps preserve engine performance, extend the lifespan of all major components, and avoid premature trips to the service center.
In short, if you want to avoid losing your warranty and facing unexpected repair costs, patience and attention are key. Proper care from day one is the best way to ensure your car has a long, trouble-free life — and that you, as the owner, can enjoy peace of mind.
