The holidays are upon us…could Santa be bringing you a new car?
Buying a new car is an exciting moment, whether it happens during a big holiday sales event or simply because it is time for an upgrade. If you’re the proud owner of a new BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, VW, Volvo, or another import vehicle, now is the perfect time to set up a maintenance routine that protects your investment and keeps your car performing at its best.
At Import Specialty Service, we’ve seen it all—good, bad, and costly repairs that could have been prevented. Here are the top things new owners often forget—and the simple steps to start a maintenance routine that pays off for years.
1. Don’t Skip the First Baseline Inspection.
Many drivers assume a new or new-to-you import car doesn’t need attention right away. But even brand-new vehicles can arrive with low fluids, software issues, or uneven tire wear.
A baseline inspection helps you:
- Establish the true condition of your vehicle
- Document any concerns early
- Set a custom maintenance schedule based on your model and driving habits
- Avoid surprises later
It’s especially important if you purchased a certified pre-owned or used import—these vehicles often have hidden maintenance needs that dealers overlook.
2. Read the Maintenance Schedule (Most People Don’t!).
Every import brand has different service intervals, and they’re not always intuitive. Some brands have “flexible” intervals that depend on mileage, engine condition, and driving style.
At Import Specialty Service, we help many Nashville drivers create a personalized maintenance plan, taking into account:
- Local weather
- Traffic patterns
- Highway vs. in-city driving
- The specific needs of your vehicle’s engine and transmission
A customized schedule saves money by preventing unnecessary services while protecting your car from long-term wear.
3. Check All Fluids Early—Not Just Oil.
One of the biggest oversights new owners make is assuming all fluids are full and fresh. In reality, they often aren’t.
Prioritize checking:
- Engine oil
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Even one low or aging fluid can affect performance, especially on import engines designed to run with very specific tolerances.
4. Don’t Ignore Tire Pressure and Alignment.
Tires are one of the first places new car owners experience unexpected issues—particularly in Tennessee’s shifting temperatures.
Low tire pressure or misaligned wheels can:
- Reduce fuel economy
- Cause uneven tire wear
- Affect braking
- Create steering pull or vibration
A quick tire and alignment check early on sets you up for smoother, safer driving.
5. Update Your Software & Navigation Systems
Many new owners don’t realize their car’s onboard computer may already be out of date. Updates can improve:
- Fuel efficiency
- Safety features
- Sensor accuracy
- Infotainment and navigation performance
Import vehicles are especially sensitive to outdated software, and keeping systems current helps prevent error messages and electronic glitches.
6. Protect Your Warranty by Documenting Every Service
Even if your car is under warranty, service performed outside the dealership is allowed—you just need accurate documentation.
At Import Specialty Service:
- Every visit is logged and reported to Carfax.
- We follow manufacturer standards.
- We use approved parts and fluids.
- You receive service records that you can provide to your warranty company anytime.
This protects you if warranty issues arise later.
7. Establish a Trusted Relationship Early.
A well-maintained import car lasts longer, drives better, and costs less to own over time. The best way to protect your investment is to have a shop that understands your vehicle inside and out.
At Import Specialty Service, our technicians specialize in BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Volkswagen, Volvo, and other premium import brands.
If you’re lucky enough to wake up to a new European or Asian car under the tree, bring it by Import Specialty Service for a total checkup. This will allow you to catch any potential issues early and establish an early maintenance schedule that will keep your new vehicle running smoothly for many years to come.
>> Schedule your checkup today.
