What to Do After Car Delivery – First Week Checklist for New Owners
Your First Week as a Car Owner Matters More Than You Think
So you’ve taken delivery of your brand new car congratulations! But now what? The first week isn’t just about showing it off or planning a road trip. It’s the time to set up, secure, and start your ownership journey the right way.
This post walks you through everything you should do in the first 7 days, so you avoid common mistakes and feel fully in control as a new car owner in India.
1. Double-Check All Car Documents at Home
Even if you verified everything at the dealership, now’s the time to recheck calmly.
| Document | What to Confirm |
|---|---|
| RC or temporary registration | Name, chassis/VIN, engine number match your invoice |
| Insurance policy | Your name, vehicle details, IDV, and coverage dates |
| Invoice and payment receipt | Final amount, accessories listed |
| Warranty & RSA (if applicable) | Duration and activation confirmation |
| Owner’s manual & service booklet | Ensure both are included with dealer stamp |
| Fastag details | Linked and working? Check app or SMS confirmation |
Scan or photocopy everything digital backups can save you in case of loss
2. Get the Car Essentials in Place (If Not Already Done)
| Item | Why You Need It Immediately |
|---|---|
| Floor mats, mud flaps | Protect interiors and underbody from day one |
| Seat covers (if desired) | Prevent long-term wear on factory seats |
| Car cover (if parked outside) | Protects against dust, rain, and birds |
| Phone mount/charging cable | For safe navigation setup |
| Emergency triangle, torch | Often missing buy and keep in boot |
If any of these were promised by the dealer but not delivered, follow up within the first week.
3. Secure Your Car Against Theft
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Always park in safe, well-lit areas | Especially in open parking or public roads |
| Install a steering lock or gear lock | Simple but effective theft deterrent |
| Consider a GPS tracker | Some cost under ₹2,000 and offer app-based tracking |
| Activate anti-theft alerts | If your car has a connected car system like Suzuki Connect, Hyundai Bluelink, etc. |
Note your vehicle’s VIN and engine number somewhere safely for future police or insurance use
4. Set Up the Tech Inside Your Car
| Setup Task | Why It’s Useful |
|---|---|
| Pair your phone via Bluetooth | Hands-free calling and media |
| Sync with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay | Safer driving and smarter navigation |
| Save favourite FM stations | Avoid distractions while tuning |
| Load your phone contacts | Some infotainment systems support this |
Explore and set safety alerts (like seatbelt reminder, speed alert) don’t ignore them
5. Drive Gently – Follow the Car Break-In Period Guidelines
| First 1,000-1,500 km Rules | What to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Keep RPM under 2,500-3,000 | Prevents engine wear in the early phase |
| Don’t drive at constant speed too long | Vary speed gradually to help engine parts settle |
| Avoid sudden braking or acceleration | Let the car settle into regular use |
| Don’t use cruise control | Even on highways, vary speeds naturally |
Check your manual each brand gives slightly different recommendations
6. Learn Basic Car Troubleshooting & Setup
| Learn About | Why It’s Useful |
|---|---|
| Checking tyre pressure | Saves fuel and improves safety |
| Where your jack and spare tyre are | In case of puncture or emergency |
| How to open fuel lid and bonnet | Not always obvious in new cars |
| Where your fuses and battery are | Useful for jump-starting or light issues |
Use this week to do a slow, stress-free walkaround and discover every switch, button, and feature
7. Set Reminders for Car Service and Insurance
| Reminder Type | What It Helps You Track |
|---|---|
| First free service | Usually due within 1,000-2,000 km or 30 days |
| Pollution Certificate (PUC) | Required in many states even for new cars |
| Insurance renewal | Add a calendar reminder for 11 months ahead |
| Extended warranty/insurance add-ons | Consider Zero Dep, Engine Protect, RSA |
Save your service centre’s contact and install the app (if your brand has one)
8. Drive Around Locally Before Going Long-Distance
Your first week should be about:
- Getting used to how your car moves, brakes, and turns
- Practising parking, especially if it’s a larger vehicle than before
- Testing visibility, mirror settings, and blind spots
- Noting blind zones or turning radius issues
Avoid outstation trips or ghat driving in the first few days unless you’re fully confident
9. Join Car Owner Communities (Optional but Helpful)
| Platform | Benefits You Get |
|---|---|
| WhatsApp/Telegram groups | Brand-specific tips, service centre reviews |
| Facebook groups | DIY guides, fuel efficiency reports, recalls |
| Reddit or Team-BHP | Deeper technical insights, long-term reviews |
Just be selective not every tip online is reliable. Confirm with your manual or dealer.
10. Enjoy the Process But Stay Alert
Yes, you should enjoy the new car feel but stay aware of:
- Any strange noises
- Warning lights
- Leaks or drips under the car
- Wheel alignment issues
- Tyre pressure loss or battery concerns
Report anything unusual to the service centre early don’t wait for the first service
11. Your First Week Sets the Tone for Long-Term Ownership
Think of the first week like setting up a home the sooner you take care of setup, protection, and learning, the better your long-term experience will be.
And enjoy the start of your ownership journey with confidence and clarity.
