7 Things You Should Do After Buying A Used or New Car

Congratulations on your new (or new-to-you) car! Whether you've just driven off the dealership lot or found the perfect pre-owned vehicle, there are several important steps you should take after purchasing a car to ensure a smooth ownership experience. From paperwork to maintenance, here are seven things you should do after buying a used or new car.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Owner's Manual

Your car's owner's manual is your ultimate guide to understanding its features, maintenance requirements, and troubleshooting tips. Take the time to read through it thoroughly, paying close attention to sections on recommended maintenance schedules, warning lights, and fluid specifications.

2. Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly

Whether you bought a new or used car, it's essential to inspect it thoroughly for any issues or damage. Check the exterior and interior for scratches, dents, or signs of wear and tear. Test all the lights, signals, and electronics to ensure they're functioning correctly. If you purchased a used car, consider having it inspected by a trusted mechanic to identify any hidden problems before they become major headaches.

3. Complete the Registration and Title Transfer

If you bought your car from a dealership, they will likely handle the registration and title transfer paperwork for you. If you purchased it from a private seller, you'll need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to complete these tasks yourself. Be sure to bring all necessary documents, including the bill of sale, vehicle title, and proof of insurance, to expedite the process.

4. Set Up Regular Maintenance Reminders

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your car running smoothly and prolonging its lifespan. Set up reminders for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections to ensure you stay on top of your vehicle's needs. Many smartphone apps and online tools help you conveniently track maintenance schedules and service history.

5. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Now that you're the proud owner of a new car, it's essential to review your insurance coverage to ensure it meets your needs. Contact your insurance provider to update your policy with information about your new vehicle, including its make, model, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Consider exploring additional coverage options such as comprehensive and collision insurance for added peace of mind.

6. Invest in Necessary Accessories or Upgrades

Depending on your preferences and driving habits, you may want to invest in accessories or upgrades to enhance your car's comfort, convenience, or performance. Whether it's all-weather floor mats, a roof rack for outdoor adventures, or a high-quality sound system for road trips, there are countless options available to personalize your driving experience.

7. Keep Up with Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining a clean and well-maintained car enhances its appearance and preserves its value and longevity. Make it a habit to wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint and finish from environmental damage.

Additionally, schedule regular maintenance appointments to address any issues promptly and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.

Key Considerations When Buying A Car

Thorough Research

Before making any decisions, conduct thorough research on the make and model of the car you're interested in. Compare prices, read reviews, and consider factors like fuel efficiency and safety features.

Beware of Hidden Fees

When negotiating the price, watch out for hidden fees and add-ons that dealerships may include. Review the final purchase agreement carefully and ask about any additional charges.

Inspect the Vehicle

Whether new or used, thoroughly inspect the car for defects or damage. Test drive it under various conditions and consider hiring a mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection.

Verify the Vehicle's History

Obtain a vehicle history report to check for past accidents or title issues. Ensure that the VIN matches the documents.

If you want to check-up on your new ride, the Mountain Tech Inc. team is more than happy to help - from an oil change to transmission diagnostics, we do it all!

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Why Does My Car Have a Burning Smell on The Long Downhills?

September 26, 2025

Driving downhill for an extended period puts unique demands on your vehicle, especially when it comes to braking and engine performance. If you’ve ever noticed a burning smell while descending a steep grade, it can be concerning. Sometimes the odor is harmless, but in other cases, it signals that your brakes, transmission, or other components are overheating. Knowing what causes these smells and how to address them can help you prevent damage and drive more safely. Brakes Overheating on Long Descents The most common source of a burning smell during downhill driving is overheated brakes. When you ride the brakes continuously, friction builds up between the brake pads and rotors, producing intense heat. This heat can cause the pads to emit a sharp, acrid odor as the material begins to break down. In extreme cases, overheated brakes can lead to brake fade — a condition where your braking power is reduced because the pads and rotors are too hot to function properly. If you notice a burning smell accompanied by reduced stopping ability, pull over safely and allow the brakes to cool before continuing. To prevent this, use engine braking whenever possible. Downshift to a lower gear to let your engine help control speed rather than relying entirely on the brake pedal. This reduces stress on your braking system and keeps temperatures in check. Transmission Fluid Overheating If your car has an automatic transmission, long downhill drives can sometimes overwork the transmission and cause its fluid to overheat. Transmission fluid helps cool and lubricate internal parts, but when it gets too hot, it can produce a distinctive burnt odor. This is more likely if you’re carrying a heavy load or towing while descending a steep grade. An overheating transmission can lead to significant wear if ignored, so if you notice a persistent burning smell combined with gear slipping or delayed shifting, have the system inspected as soon as possible. Burning Smells From the Clutch For vehicles with manual transmissions, a burning smell on downhills may come from an overheated clutch. This happens if you ride the clutch pedal or keep partial pressure on it while trying to control your speed. The friction between the clutch disc and flywheel generates heat, which produces a noticeable odor. To avoid clutch overheating, fully engage or fully release the pedal rather than “feathering” it. Downshifting properly and letting the engine handle more of the braking can also help reduce stress on the clutch. Engine Oil or Coolant Leaks Sometimes the burning smell isn’t related to the brakes or transmission at all. Engine oil or coolant can leak onto hot engine components, such as the exhaust manifold, where it burns and produces strong odors. An oil leak typically creates a thick, bitter smell, while burning coolant produces a sweet, syrupy scent. If the smell continues even after normal driving, or if you see smoke under the hood, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected. Ignoring leaks can lead to overheating, reduced engine performance, and costly repairs. Worn or Contaminated Brake Pads Even when you’re braking properly, worn or low-quality brake pads can overheat more easily on steep descents. Some pads use materials that produce stronger odors when hot, especially if they’ve absorbed contaminants like oil or grease. Replacing them with high-quality pads designed for your driving needs can minimize these smells and improve braking performance. How to Prevent Burning Smells on Downhills A few simple driving habits can make a big difference when it comes to avoiding overheating and burning odors: Use lower gears to take advantage of engine braking and reduce reliance on your brakes. Avoid riding the brakes for long stretches; apply firm, short braking instead. Check your brake system regularly to ensure pads, rotors, and fluid are in good condition. Inspect for leaks if burning smells persist after normal driving conditions. These steps reduce strain on critical systems and help maintain control during extended downhill driving. Expert Brake and Transmission Care at Mountain Tech Inc. If you’ve noticed a burning smell while driving downhill, let the team at Mountain Tech Inc. in Oregon City, OR, inspect your vehicle. Our technicians can determine whether the odor comes from overheated brakes, transmission fluid, the clutch, or leaking engine fluids, and we’ll address the issue before it leads to bigger problems. Schedule an appointment with Mountain Tech Inc. today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your vehicle is ready for every climb and descent.