Tips for keeping that brand new car in like-new condition

If you recently bought a new vehicle, excitement might be an understatement. There's nothing like sitting behind the wheel of a brand spankin' new car and taking in the crisp, clean interior, the smooth purr of the engine and the shiny sparkle of the paint. However, there are a lot of ways that your car could get damaged, so it's important to keep up regular maintenance. Here are a few ways you can make sure your new car stays looking, smelling and feeling fresh.

1. Get regular cleanings. While you might think that a good old-fashioned scrub down in your driveway is your best bet, PepBoys.com warns that household soaps like dishwashing liquid can damage the finish on your vehicle, remove wax and cause staining. It's best to head to the car wash every couple of weeks.

2. Treat the interior like you would a carpet or leather sofa. Car interiors can experience a lot of wear and tear, which is why it's crucial to keep your vehicle clean and protected. Consider investing in floor mats to keep dirt and grime from embedding into the material, and use upholstery or leather cleaner to spruce up your seats.

3. Don't smoke. Cigarette smoke can greatly diminish the value of your car, not to mention make it smell like an ashtray on wheels. Instead, use electronic cigarettes in your vehicle, which won't cause a lingering stench. As a bonus, you won't have to worry about any stray ashes burning holes in your seats - e-cigs don't get hot!

4. Park in the shade. Whether it's in a garage, underneath a tree or beneath a cover, it's important to keep your vehicle safe from the damaging heat and UV rays of the sun. A garage or cover can also ensure that your car doesn't get dirty from pollen or bird droppings, and you won't have to worry about overheating inside when it's hot out!

5. Get routine maintenance. While your car's aesthetics may be important, it's the engine and inner workings that really need to be taken care of. Make sure that your car receives routine maintenance when necessary. Although it might seem like you can go miles over the recommended amount before taking it in for something like a flush or an oil change, you're not doing your car any favors.