The first thing to do is to get the owner's manual from the glove box and check the manufacturer's recommendations for your particular vehicle. There are many factors involved in new vehicle servicing. Some items are dependent on the manufacturer and some on common sense.

Most new cars now have warranties that state there is no need for a tune-up for 100,000 Kms. Because warranties vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, check your owner's manual carefully. Most dealerships will call you to let you know when a service call is imminent.

Oil changes should be done every 5,000 Kms. Your mechanic should do a basic inspection at the same time. He should have checked the levels of all the fluids; transmission, steering, washer and coolant. He also should have checked the suspension system; tire rods, ball joints and CV boots. The under carriage should have been greased as well.

Brakes should be monitored on an ongoing basis. There two ways to check the brakes; one is aural, the other visual. You should get into the habit of listening to your brakes while you're slowing to a stop. Just turn off the radio, open a window and listen. What you should hear is nothing. The bad thing is to hear a squeal or screech. This means that there has been wearing on the brake pads. It can also mean that you have picked up a stone. You can also check by looking at the wheel. If you have a new car, it is very easy to see if there is any brake dust on the hub. The brake pads are visible behind the rim and look like a curved rectangle. If you can see black dust on the rims or wheel hub, you have wear of the brake pads. This is something that has to be repaired as quickly as possible. A car that won't start is aggravating. One that won't stop is lethal.

The other time you have to schedule your own service call is if your car is wandering. This usually happens if you have hit a hole or curb hard. Once your steering is out of alignment the only way to repair it is to have it professionally realigned. You also have to ensure that there has not been suspension or undercarriage damage.

There is a very easy way to check your car's alignment. Wait until you have a bit of road to yourself, with no oncoming traffic and make sure you steering wheel is straight. Let go of the wheel briefly. If your vehicle lists to one side or another, you need an alignment.

If you follow through on the check-ups within your control: oil changes, brake inspections and wheel alignments and attend all the dealer appointments for your new car, your vehicle will seem bright and new for a long time.

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