New Car Paranoia

TJ Mackie

You know what it is, you've all probably suffered from it at one stage!

But seriously, just looking for some tips here. I recently purchased a new (used) car. It's a BMW 320i. Nothing spectacular by some of the standards I see on here, but it's special to me because I saved and saved and saved for ages while trotting around in an old 99 Hyundai Accent that felt like it was being held together by selotape. So I really want to look after my new car, as the previous owner's kept it in great condition.

Been looking through some old threads here, and noticed some very clever tips I wouldn't have thought of (park as far away from shopping centre entrances as possible, park beside employee spaces etc.)

Any other simple, yet effective tips for preventing your pride and joy from being damaged/stolen? Seriously considering a Blackjax, but I don't know if my car would ever be a target for robbery? Any tips welcome!

Mena

No tips, just wanted to say well done and congrats. Enjoy her to the fullest you obviously earned it.

challengemaster

I'd suggest taking a look at the car detailing forum too

djimi

TJ Mackie wrote: »

Been looking through some old threads here, and noticed some very clever tips I wouldn't have thought of (park as far away from shopping centre entrances as possible, park beside employee spaces etc.)

If you dont mind looking like a wanker then park in the far (quiet) corner of the car park, across two spaces. You will, of course, get some bellend parking right beside you even if you are the only car for half a mile, but hopefully they will at least stick to the lines!

TJ Mackie wrote: »

Any other simple, yet effective tips for preventing your pride and joy from being damaged/stolen? Seriously considering a Blackjax, but I don't know if my car would ever be a target for robbery? Any tips welcome!

A good alarm is worth its weight in gold when it comes to piece of mind. Nothing ever offers 100% security, but I sleep so much better at night knowing that the Clifford in my car will at least make it a lot harder for anyone who wants to take it.

cml387

If you have to park in crowded spaces, don't park beside an SUV.
Harassed mother and wild children swinging open doors, and the size mismatch means no chance of rubber protection working.

TJ Mackie

challengemaster wrote: »

I'd suggest taking a look at the car detailing forum too

I have, and as a result, have been requesting vouchers for Spirit Detailing in Leixlip as my Christmas Presents

xabi

djimi wrote: »

If you dont mind looking like a wanker then park in the far (quiet) corner of the car park, across two spaces. You will, of course, get some bellend parking right beside you even if you are the only car for half a mile, but hopefully they will at least stick to the lines!



A good alarm is worth its weight in gold when it comes to piece of mind. Nothing ever offers 100% security, but I sleep so much better at night knowing that the Clifford in my car will at least make it a lot harder for anyone who wants to take it.

That really annoys the **** out of me!

TJ Mackie

djimi wrote: »

A good alarm is worth its weight in gold when it comes to piece of mind. Nothing ever offers 100% security, but I sleep so much better at night knowing that the Clifford in my car will at least make it a lot harder for anyone who wants to take it.

Do you mind me asking which Clifford you have, and where you got it?

I've been trying to locate someone who sells/installs the Blackjax system in Dublin, but having no luck. Probably just not searching the right terminology!

djimi

xabi wrote: »

That really annoys the **** out of me!

Annoys the **** out of me to come back to my car and find a dent that will cost a couple of hundred quid to fix also!

djimi

TJ Mackie wrote: »

Do you mind me asking which Clifford you have, and where you got it?

I've been trying to locate someone who sells/installs the Blackjax system in Dublin, but having no luck. Probably just not searching the right terminology!

Give Brendan in MDS in Ballyfermot a shout. They installed mine and I was very happy with the service. He seems to have an excellent reputation generally.

Im not sure which one I have; the Clifford Concept 650 I think it is. Cost me about €800 (I got it with the Blackjax but without remote start); it was a panic buy in fairness after someone attempted to steal my car, but it gives me piece of mind so it was worth it as far as Im concerned.

OREGATO

As above, go to Brendan in MDS for a Clifford alarm installation.

In terms of general advice, if you have to park near other cars, try to get a corner space, reduces the chances of someone dinging your door by 50% Try to park as far over to the side as possible to avoid someone parking on top of you.

Do not use automated car washes or brush washes from petrol stations on your car (I see you're already looking for vouchers for Spirit so that's a good sign)

When servicing time comes, don't cheap out on cheap parts, go with OEM parts where possible and make sure you get the right oil for it. Same can be said with tyres, (there will be varying opinions on this) but I would say to always buy a premium brand tyre, I personally don't go for part worns but obviously each to their own and all that.

Most of all, enjoy the car There is no more a satisfying feeling than jumping into a new (to you) car and driving it.

Stallingrad

Get parking sensors fitted if the car doesn't had them, invaluable when reversing, not just for cars, wheelie bins but for unseen things low down, bollards, small people, etc. Don't park next to 3 door cars (wide doors!). Protect your divers side most from dings, you can endure them on the other side if you can't see them every time you get in the car. Jesus this sounds sad!