Be prepared!

Sorry, it's been a little while since I've posted.  My thought for this message is to be prepared.
When you buy your first car or your 3rd car, be familiar with it.  Does it have a spare tire?  (Some new cars don't even come with spares.)  Do you know how to change it?  If not, take advantage of the nicer weather and practice in your driveway where it's safe.  Read your owner's manual.  It sounds obvious but if the manufacturer could save $1.00 per car by not providing it, don't you think they would?  There's a lot of valuable information in there, and it pertains to your safety.  What certain lights on the dash mean, how to access your jack and accessories and other features your car may have that you may not realize.  Read it in the bathroom if need be.
Fluids have changed in the years I've been doing this.  Synthetic oils, transmission fluid, brake fluid and even antifreeze has changed.  Know what is being put in your car.  Is your GM 2012 or newer?  It probably takes a special oil called Dexos, and if the oil change place isn't using it, it could void your warranty.  Be smart, be educated.  I've got 265,000 miles on my jeep for a reason.  Original engine and transmission.  Don't be afraid to ask your mechanic (I hope you've got one you frequent so there's a relationship built) about your car.