A bunch of Car Questions from a noob
 

I unfortunately know almost nothing about cars, although I'm researching. I have no family members that are on the know-how either, which I am sure is why I am at a lack of knowledge.

I've had hammy down vehicles all my life, and never purchased one myself. Within the next two years I'm buying two vehicles for the first time. A 2011-13 GMC Acadia for functional purposes, and a new Scion FR-S to learn how to have some fun for once!

I can't stand how poorly my family keeps their vehicles, and I want to do my best to prevent short lived car.

But, I don't know how to do this. So I'm asking all the experts out there what I should be doing, general maintenance, general practices, and all that.

To make it simple, let's base all the questions on the FR-S:

How often should I get an oil change?

What kind of quality oil should I use?

How often should I do other general maintenance on the engine?

How often should I get my brakes changed?

Any tips on other general maintenance or tips in general?

What are some common things that people do (like revving the engine constantly to show off) that could lead to a shorter-lived car in the future?

Anything else I should know?

Lastly, is there a huge benefit to Manual vs Automatic? (looks like fun!)



I'm tired of knowing nothing! Hopefully some of you can help me out :D

"Hammy down"?

Service center at the dealership could give you pointers before purchase.

haha, yeah, previously owned vehicles from my family. It's horrible...

I rather hear it from people from the forums. I rather not be spoon fed from a list of answers

Is this a serious statement?
Because that's exactly what you're asking for.

"Hammy down?" Is that slang, a typo or did you seriously not know its actually "Hand me down"? Go to a dealer for all your maintenance needs.

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Hand me down? Well this is awkward...

Honestly, the owner's manual probably covers all the questions you listed. It provides the maintenance schedule and the recommended types of fluids. There's also some DIY guides on how to change basic things such as bulbs.

Hahaha, I always heard people say "hammy down", not literally hand-me down. Thought it was slang for it :bonk:

Hmmmm, guess I'll have to look at the manual then

Going to a dealer for your needs will be best with a new car, but I'll answer your questions since others won't.

How often should I get an oil change? Most people do it every 3000 miles. With the FRS, first oil change is scheduled at 7500 miles. Personally I would meet in the middle and do every 5k miles if you want to do it all yourself. If not, the dealer will do it for you at the 7500 mile point.

What kind of quality oil should I use? Always use full synthetic oil. Just keeps it simple. I think our cars call for 0w-20. Different brands have different claims... I've found they usually are all the same. When in doubt, just go with mobil 1.

How often should I do other general maintenance on the engine? You should check your oil at every fill up. DI motors are known to burn oil. Doesn't mean that it will, but better safe than sorry. Spark plugs just let the dealer do. You don't want to mess that up. It's not hard, but I don't suggest it for a beginner.

How often should I get my brakes changed? Completely depends on your driving style. Your brakes will let you know when it's time to change them.

Any tips on other general maintenance or tips in general? If you're ever uncomfortable doing something, let the dealer handle it. If they mess it up, they are liable for it.

What are some common things that people do (like revving the engine constantly to show off) that could lead to a shorter-lived car in the future? Revving the motor, redlining the motor constantly, not changing the oil, neglecting he car.... At the end of the day anything you do causes wear and tear. Just enjoy the car while you can.

Anything else I should know? Not that I can think of.

Lastly, is there a huge benefit to Manual vs Automatic? (looks like fun!)

No. I personally drive manual because I get bored easily and shifting keeps me entertained. Both have their strong points. But there isn't a benefit of one over the other per say.

Seriously, for your first car, just follow the manual and find a good dealership. Some wear items like brake pads and tires will depend on your habits, but a good dealer will check those when you go in for oil changes. You also CYA when you get work done at the dealership. Practice on that beater you are getting, and let them work on the $25K fully warrantied new car.

Best bet for manual vs. automatic is to search for the approximately 30 million threads already on the subject. Some people think manual is more fun; some people say auto is more practical, especially if you have a long commute.

Didn't know to keep an eye on the oil level at fill up. With all of my previous Toyotas I never had low oil issues. Guess I better start with the FR-S.Thanks!

Yeah, Had to start somewhere. Definitely going to be asking the dealership a bunch of questions, reading the manual, and all that. Just wanted to see if there were any extra tips you may not find at either of those sources.

Thanks!

I knew nothing about cars either. My dad absolutely hates cars (especially driving) and only thinks of them just tools to go places. Now I have two sports cars within a year and still consider myself a noob, but I'm learning a lot as time goes on. All I did was watch YouTube videos, met some car people, and the forums. I regret not learning enough before getting my BRZ, so research lots before you get your FRS. Especially taking care of the car's paint. I've made the mistake of using the wrong products to wash my car and waxing it. Definitely learn about car detailing.

New car owner also. Haven't done it yet so what should I avoid with washing the car?