First Month Checklist: New Car Owner's Guide

The first month with your new car is crucial for establishing good habits, completing legal requirements, and identifying any issues. This comprehensive checklist ensures you don't miss anything important.

Day 1: Immediate Priorities

Before Driving Away

Legal essentials:

1. Insurance active

• Policy confirmed
• Cover note received
• Correct vehicle details
• Start date today
• Keep documents in car

2. Vehicle taxed

• Used V5C/2 reference
• Online/phone/Post Office
• Confirmation received
• Legal to drive immediately
• No grace period

3. MOT valid (if required)

• Check gov.uk/check-mot-history
• Must be current if 3+ years old
• Note expiry date
• Book if due soon
• Cannot drive without valid MOT

4. Documents received:

• V5C/2 green slip
• Service history
• MOT certificates
• Spare keys (both)
• Owner's manual
• Any warranties
• Bill of sale

Initial Checks

5. Familiarise with controls

• Lights (full beam, fog, indicators)
• Wipers (intermittent, rear)
• Climate control
• Seat adjustments
• Mirrors (all three)
• Handbrake
• Gear positions

6. Adjust driving position

• Seat height and distance
• Steering wheel angle/reach
• Mirror positions
• Headrest height
• Save settings if electric

7. Check fuel level

• Note current level
• Identify fuel type
• Locate filler cap release
• Find nearest petrol station
• Never put wrong fuel

8. Photograph everything

• Exterior (all angles)
• Interior condition
• Mileage display
• Any existing damage
• VIN locations
• Documents
• Date-stamped

First Week: Essential Tasks

Paperwork and Registration

Day 1-2:

9. Notify DVLA of keeper change

• Online: gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle
• Or post V5C/2 to DVLA
• Keep confirmation
• Note date sent

10. Set up online accounts

• Insurance company login
• DVLA vehicle tax account
• MOT reminder service
• Service history tracking

11. Update direct debits

• Insurance payment
• Tax Direct Debit (if chosen)
• Breakdown cover
• Verify amounts

12. Create car folder

• Physical or digital
• Store all documents
• Purchase receipt
• Insurance documents
• V5C/2 slip
• Service history
• MOT certificates
• Warranties

Vehicle Familiarisation

Days 1-7:

13. Read owner's manual

• Service intervals
• Tyre pressures
• Fuel type
• Oil specification
• Warning light meanings
• Special features
• Emergency procedures

14. Test all features

• Lights (all combinations)
• Wipers (all speeds)
• Windows (all)
• Climate control
• Radio/infotainment
• Bluetooth/phone pairing
• Parking sensors
• Cruise control
• Heated seats
• Any special features

15. Short local drives

• Familiar routes first
• Get used to size
• Understand handling
• Learn biting point (manual)
• Practice parking
• Test brakes gently
• Note any concerns

16. Identify nearest services

• Petrol stations
• Car wash
• Tyre fitters
• Garages
• Emergency breakdown points
• Note addresses

Initial Maintenance

Days 1-7:

17. Check fluid levels

• Engine oil (dipstick)
• Coolant (expansion tank)
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid (if applicable)
• Windscreen washer
• Top up if needed

18. Check tyre pressures

• Find recommended pressures (door pillar sticker)
• Check all 4 + spare
• Adjust if needed
• Petrol stations have pumps
• When tyres cold

19. Check tyre condition

• Tread depth (min 1.6mm, ideally 3mm+)
• Even wear
• No cuts or bulges
• Age (date code on sidewall)
• All same type if possible

20. External light check

• Walk around with lights on
• Check all working
• Headlights (dipped and full beam)
• Side lights
• Indicators (all 4)
• Brake lights
• Reverse lights
• Fog lights
• Number plate lights

21. Clean the car

• Full wash and vacuum
• Remove previous owner traces
• Clean windows thoroughly
• Interior wipe down
• Makes it feel yours
• Easier to spot new damage

Week 2: Deeper Checks

Mechanical Inspection

Days 8-14:

22. Book professional inspection (if not already)

• Mobile mechanic or garage
• Comprehensive check
• £100-£150 typically
• Identifies issues early
• Peace of mind

23. Check battery

• Starts well every time?
• Dashboard bright?
• Battery age (sticker on battery)
• Check terminals (clean, tight)
• Over 5 years? Plan replacement

24. Monitor engine temperature

• Warms to middle
• Stays consistent
• Doesn't overheat
• Gauge working correctly

25. Listen for unusual noises

• Engine notes
• Exhaust sounds
• Brake squeals
• Suspension knocks
• Transmission whines
• Document any concerns

26. Check exhaust emissions

• No excessive smoke
• Smell normal
• No unusual colours
• Strong fuel smell?

Performance Assessment

Days 8-14:

27. Test acceleration

• Pulls smoothly
• No hesitation
• Power feels adequate
• No misfires
• Engine response good

28. Test braking

• Stops straight
• No pulling to side
• Pedal feels firm
• No vibration
• Emergency stop practice (safe location)

29. Test steering

• Doesn't pull when hands off (briefly, safely)
• No excessive play
• Power steering working
• Returns to center
• Smooth operation

30. Longer motorway drive

• Highway speeds
• Fuel consumption note
• Any vibrations?
• Comfortable cruise
• No overheating

Financial Setup

Days 8-14:

31. Set up maintenance fund

• Separate savings
• £50-£100/month
• For repairs/servicing
• Emergency cushion
• Prevents panic

32. Track fuel consumption

• Note mileage at fill-ups
• Calculate MPG
• Compare to claimed figures
• Identify issues early
• Track in app

33. Review insurance policy

• Read full terms
• Understand excess
• Know what's covered
• Claim process
• Emergency numbers

Week 3: Service and Safety

Service Planning

Days 15-21:

34. Review service history

• Check service intervals
• When was last service?
• What's due next?
• Which items?
• Book if due soon

35. Identify regular garage

• Local independent
• Or main dealer
• Check reviews
• Get quote for service
• Build relationship

36. Check timing belt status

• Age-based (5-10 years)
• Mileage-based (60-100k)
• When last changed?
• When due?
• Budget if needed (£400-£800)

37. Air conditioning check

• Working properly?
• Cold air?
• Any smells?
• Service due? (every 2 years)
• Cost: £50-£80

Safety Equipment

Days 15-21:

38. Check safety kit

• Warning triangle
• High-vis vests
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher (optional)
• Torch
• Blanket

39. Check spare wheel/repair kit

• Spare tyre present?
• Correct pressure?
• Jack and wrench?
• Or puncture repair kit?
• Know how to use

40. Review breakdown cover

• Active and correct?
• Card in car
• Emergency numbers
• What's covered?
• Home start included?

41. Fit dashcam (optional)

• Front-facing minimum
• Rear camera useful
• Insurance discounts possible
• Evidence in accidents
• £50-£150 investment

Security Measures

Days 15-21:

42. Check security features

• Central locking works (all doors)
• Alarm functioning
• Immobiliser active
• Deadlocks (if fitted)
• All keys work

43. Consider additional security

• Steering wheel lock
• Pedal lock
• Tracker (insurance discount)
• VIN etching
• Particularly high-value cars

44. Register valuables

• Serial numbers noted
• Photos of items
• Immobilisation codes
• Never leave on display
• Take with you

Week 4: Final Checks

Administration Complete

Days 22-30:

45. V5C arrival check

• Should arrive by 6 weeks
• Check details correct
• Your name and address
• Vehicle details match
• Store safely

If not arrived:

• Wait full 6 weeks
• Contact DVLA: 0300 790 6802
• Provide details
• May need duplicate

46. Set up reminders

• MOT expiry (1 month before)
• Tax renewal (1 month before)
• Service due date
• Insurance renewal (3 weeks before)
• Phone calendar
• Email alerts

47. Complete any repairs

• Issues identified
• Minor fixes
• Negotiate with seller if warranty
• Get quotes
• Book work

48. Join owner forums

• Model-specific groups
• Facebook groups
• Enthusiast forums
• Local clubs
• Advice and support

Driving Assessment

Days 22-30:

49. Evaluate performance

• Happy with car?
• Meets expectations?
• Any regrets?
• Issues within first 30 days?
• Dealer warranty claim?

50. Consumer rights check

• Within 30-day rejection period?
• Any faults discovered?
• Not as described?
• Can reject if major issues
• Act quickly if problems

51. Document condition

• Current mileage
• Current condition
• Photos
• Any changes from purchase
• Reference point

52. Assess running costs

• Fuel costs actual
• Insurance confirmed
• Tax amount
• Maintenance needs
• Compare to budget

Future Planning

Days 22-30:

53. Create maintenance schedule

• Next service date
• MOT due date
• Tax renewal
• Tyre replacement planned
• Major services upcoming

54. Budget for year ahead

• Annual costs
• Service: £150-£400
• MOT: £55 (max)
• Tax: £0-£735
• Insurance: £400-£1,200
• Fuel: £1,200-£3,000
• Repairs: £200-£500 buffer

55. Clean and protect

• Wax or ceramic coat
• Interior protection
• Fabric/leather treatment
• Regular cleaning schedule
• Maintain value

Red Flags in First Month

Issues Requiring Action

Contact seller/dealer if:

• Major mechanical failure
• Significant fault discovered
• Not as described
• Mileage discrepancy found
• Write-off history discovered
• Outstanding finance found

Within 30 days:

• Right to reject (dealers)
• Full refund possible
• Act immediately
• Consumer Rights Act protection
• Get legal advice if needed

Private sales:

• Very limited rights
• Only if misrepresented
• Act fast
• Document everything
• Consider legal action

First Month Costs

Budget Planning

Expect to spend:

Essential immediate:

• Insurance: £400-£1,200/year (£35-£100/month)
• Tax: £0-£190 (first payment)
• Fuel: £100-£250 (first month)

Likely first month:

• Oil top-up: £10-£20
• Washer fluid: £5
• Air freshener: £5
• Cleaning supplies: £20
• Tyre pressure gauge: £10

Possible first month:

• Service if due: £150-£400
• Minor repairs: £50-£200
• Accessories: £50-£150
• Dashcam: £50-£150

Total first month budget:

• Minimum: £150-£300 (essentials only)
• Average: £300-£600 (including minor items)
• Higher if service due: £600-£1,000

Record Keeping

What to Track

Create spreadsheet:

• Date purchased
• Purchase price
• Current mileage
• Every fuel fill-up
• All maintenance
• All repairs
• Insurance renewals
• Tax payments
• MOT tests
• Any issues

Why track:

• Budget understanding
• Service history continuation
• Resale value evidence
• Issue pattern identification
• Peace of mind

Apps to consider:

• Fuelio
• Drivvo
• Simply Auto
• Car Minder
• MyCarCheck

Summary: 30-Day Checklist

Week 1 essentials:

• Insurance active
• Vehicle taxed
• MOT valid
• Documents collected
• DVLA notified
• Car folder created
• Fluids checked
• Tyres checked
• All features tested
• Owner's manual read

Week 2 priorities:

• Professional inspection booked
• Battery checked
• Unusual noises noted
• Longer test drive completed
• Fuel consumption tracking started
• Insurance policy reviewed
• Maintenance fund started

Week 3 tasks:

• Service history reviewed
• Regular garage identified
• Timing belt status checked
• Safety kit verified
• Breakdown cover confirmed
• Security features tested
• Dashcam fitted (optional)

Week 4 completion:

• V5C arrival monitored
• Reminders set
• Any repairs completed
• Performance evaluated
• Running costs assessed
• Maintenance schedule created
• Car cleaned and protected

Critical 30-day window:

• Rejection rights strongest (dealers)
• Consumer Rights Act protection
• Identify issues early
• Establish good habits
• Complete legal requirements
• Plan future maintenance

If you only do five things:

1. Tax and insure immediately
2. Notify DVLA
3. Check all fluids and tyres
4. Test every feature
5. Professional inspection within 2 weeks

The first month sets the tone for your ownership experience. Take the time to complete these checks, establish good habits, and identify any issues while your legal protection is strongest. A thorough first month prevents problems and costs later.