Many employers incentivize employees to work hard and stay focused by awarding them with a company car. While this may feel like a huge bonus, it’s also a big responsibility. Whether your boss lent you a vehicle or gifted you one to keep forever, you’ll want to keep it in good condition so you can show it off for years to come.

That being said, here are a few things you should avoid doing when driving and vibing in your new ride.

1. Forgetting About Oil Changes

Forgetting to change your oil can cause buildup and premature engine failure. Therefore, you must remember to schedule regular oil changes. Depending on your driving habits and the length of your commute, you may have to do so every 1,000 miles. However, if you switch to synthetic oil, you could go as far as 10,000 miles before scheduling an oil change.

Consult your owner’s manual to determine how often you should check and tend to the oil to keep your vehicle in good condition.

2. Using the Wrong Lubricants

If you decide to change the oil yourself or want to add lubricant to your vehicle, you must choose the right kind. If the viscosity is too low, the lubricant can cause a considerable amount of internal engine wear. If it’s too high, your engine will experience increased drag and a dip in efficiency.

Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure you use the correct lubricants for any auto application. Doing so will prolong the life of your engine and keep the entire vehicle in good condition in the long-term.

3. Neglecting the Tires

One of the worst things you can do to your company car is neglect the tires. If you fail to check the tire pressure, you run the risk of a flat tire or even an explosion. Meanwhile, those who forget to rotate and balance the wheels will end up with worn tires and an empty wallet when they have to replace them.

Therefore, it’s wise to check your tire pressure every few weeks and take your car to the mechanic if you notice any shaking or vibrating. Often, these are warning signs of misalignment, which can wear your tires down quicker than usual.

4. Disregarding Warning Signs

If one of the symbols on your dashboard lights up, don’t disregard it. There’s likely a reason that little guy lit up and the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

Figure out what each symbol means and take your car to the mechanic as soon as possible, especially if there’s a problem with your brakes or engine. While you may be able to get away with ignoring the washer fluid light for a few days, major components require immediate attention, so you don’t cause further damage.

5. Skipping the Carwash

Many of your car’s most essential elements lie right beneath your feet on the underbelly of your vehicle. These components, which include the suspension, wheelhouses and floor frames, are often made of steel. While this material is strong, it is also prone to rust, especially if you don’t wash your car.

Instead of letting road salt and dirt build up on the undercarriage, take your vehicle to the carwash every few weeks. This simple habit will keep your car in mint condition. Plus, it’ll always look like you drove it right off the lot.

6. Driving Fast and Furious

Driving like you’re competing in the Indy 500 won’t score you any brownie points with your boss, nor will it do your vehicle any favors. In fact, having a led foot or riding the brakes can put stress on your car and turn it into a gas guzzler.

Save money and reduce wear and tear by practicing good driving habits. Accelerate and brake conservatively and use common sense when it comes to passing or stopping for other drivers. These simple improvements will keep both you and your car safe in the long run.

Save Money with Maintenance

Taking care of the company car isn’t most people’s definition of fun. In fact, keeping your vehicle in good condition will likely require quite a bit of time and money. However, investing a few dollars here and there will save you from shelling out thousands for expensive, preventable repairs. Make a maintenance checklist — and a list of all the things you shouldn’t do — and you’ll be good as gold.