Top Tips for Success in Vehicles: Drive Smarter, Safer, and More Efficiently

Introduction

Whether you’re a new driver, car enthusiast, or vehicle owner looking to protect your investment, understanding how to manage, maintain, and make the most of your vehicle is essential. From choosing the right car to maximising fuel efficiency and ensuring road safety, small habits make a big difference.

At drivion.com.au, we help Australians take control of their vehicle journey—from purchase to performance to long-term care. In this guide, we’ve compiled the top tips for success in vehicles, covering everything from maintenance and budgeting to safety and resale value.

1. Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Needs

Start with Purpose, Not Popularity

Before you buy, consider how your car will fit your daily life.

Ask yourself:

• Do I need a vehicle for city driving, long commutes, or weekend trips?
• What’s my budget for fuel, insurance, and maintenance?
• How important are safety features, tech, or boot space?

Common vehicle categories:

• Small hatchbacks – Fuel-efficient and city-friendly
• SUVs – Ideal for families and active lifestyles
• Utes and 4WDs – Great for tradies or off-road adventures
• Hybrids/EVs – Eco-conscious, low emissions, and tech-savvy

Drivion Tip: Take multiple test drives, read independent reviews, and check ANCAP safety ratings before committing.

2. Follow a Preventive Maintenance Schedule

Service Before It Breaks

Routine maintenance extends your car’s lifespan, prevents breakdowns, and improves resale value.

Checklist to follow:

• Oil change every 10,000–15,000km
• Tyre rotation and balancing every 10,000km
• Brake pads inspection every 20,000–30,000km
• Replace filters (air, cabin, fuel) as per your service log
• Annual vehicle inspection—even if not legally required

Pro Tip: Use your phone calendar or service app to schedule reminders.

3. Keep Your Tyres in Top Shape

Your Car’s Only Contact with the Road

Worn or under-inflated tyres affect fuel economy, handling, and safety.

Tyre care tips:

• Check pressure monthly (especially before long trips)
• Keep pressure at manufacturer-recommended levels (found in the door jamb)
• Inspect tread depth—replace below 1.6mm
• Rotate tyres every 10,000km to ensure even wear

Drivion Insight: Invest in a portable tyre pressure gauge—it’s affordable and easy to use.

4. Optimise Fuel Efficiency

Drive Smart, Spend Less

Fuel efficiency isn’t just about engine size—it’s about driving habits and maintenance.

Top fuel-saving tips:

• Avoid hard acceleration and rapid braking
• Don’t overload your car unnecessarily
• Use cruise control on highways
• Keep tyres properly inflated
• Remove roof racks or carriers when not in use

Bonus: Choose E10 or regular unleaded unless your car specifically requires premium fuel.

5. Learn Basic DIY Vehicle Care

Save Money and Build Confidence

Even if you’re not a mechanic, basic car care can save you time and money.

Learn how to:

• Check and top up engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid
• Change wiper blades
• Replace light bulbs or fuses
• Jump-start a car safely
• Replace a flat tyre with the spare

Drivion Tip: Watch online tutorials specific to your make and model, and always follow safety guidelines.

6. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Drive Smarter with Vehicle Tech

Modern vehicles—and your smartphone—offer plenty of tools to improve safety and performance.

Must-use tech tools:

• Vehicle maintenance apps (e.g., Drivion Logbook, Car Scanner)
• Dash cams for safety and insurance claims
• GPS and fuel tracking apps (like Waze or Fuel Map Australia)
• Reverse cameras and parking sensors
• Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music

Pro Tip: If your car doesn’t come with smart tech, aftermarket devices are widely available and affordable.

7. Know Your Insurance and Roadside Coverage

Prepare for the Unexpected

Don’t wait for an accident or breakdown to think about your coverage.

What to check:

• Is your vehicle insured for its market or agreed value?
• Do you have roadside assistance (RACV, NRMA, etc.)?
• Is windscreen or hail damage covered?
• Are drivers under 25 included?

Drivion Suggestion: Compare quotes annually—you could save hundreds by switching.

8. Keep Your Car Clean Inside and Out

Look Good, Feel Good, Retain Value

Clean cars not only look better—they hold value and resist wear.

Car cleaning tips:

• Wash fortnightly and wax quarterly to protect paint
• Vacuum regularly and use sunshades to protect interiors
• Clean windows for clear visibility
• Use leather or fabric protectants as needed
• Store your logbook and service receipts for resale value

Bonus: Schedule a full professional detailing once or twice a year.

9. Stay Safe and Prepared on the Road

Good Drivers Prepare for What Others Don’t

Safety is the foundation of successful vehicle ownership.

Keep these in your boot:

• First aid kit
• Jumper leads
• Tyre repair kit or spare tyre and jack
• Torch
• Water and basic tools

Driving safety reminders:

• Check mirrors and blind spots frequently
• Drive to conditions, not just speed limits
• Never drive tired or distracted
• Always use seatbelts and child restraints properly

10. Plan Ahead for Resale or Trade-In

Your Car Is an Investment—Protect Its Value

Whether you plan to sell privately or trade it in, good maintenance and documentation go a long way.

Resale best practices:

• Keep full service records
• Limit unnecessary modifications
• Avoid interior damage or smoking in the vehicle
• Get an inspection before selling to boost buyer confidence

Drivion Pro Tip: Selling privately often yields more value—but trade-ins are quicker. Choose what suits your timeline and comfort level.

Conclusion

Success with vehicles isn’t about horsepower or price tags—it’s about how well you understand, maintain, and optimise your vehicle over time. Whether you’re a first-time owner or an experienced driver, the tips above will help you get more out of your car while saving money, staying safe, and enjoying every journey.

At drivion.com.au, we provide resources, insights, and tools to help Australians become more confident, capable, and informed vehicle owners.

Ready to drive smarter? Explore our vehicle care guides, driving tools, and community tips today.