Here are the most important things a first time autocrosser can do:

1) Ask lots of questions. Autocrossers are friendly and want to help you get better. But make sure you are asking when they aren't too busy. If someone looks lost in thought or has their eyes closed don't bother them.

2) Walk the course - A LOT!!! If you can't close your eyes and play the whole course back in your mind then you haven't walked enough.

3) Don't worry about car setup!!! Other than making sure you have everything cleaned out of the interior and the trunk and that you have 40 psi in the tires don't touch the car. Autocross is 90% driver skill - work on that and you will be faster sooner

4) Be humble. Almost no one does well at their first autocross. Don't expect to stand out either because of your mad skillz or because of your bling bling car. But, on the other hand, no one is really watching so if you make big mistakes out there no one but you will make a big deal about it. Relax.

5) DO NOT DRIVE LIKE AN IDIOT ENTERING OR LEAVING THE LOT. Autocross sites are very hard to come by. If you piss off the neighbors you won't make it easier to keep the lot. Drive sensibly and responsibly and slowly when not on the course. Remember there is no tire warming allowed before entering the course. DO NOT try going in circles to heat your tires. Leave that for the NASCAR guys.

6) Have fun. This is the most important point. While autocross is a competition its an AMATUER competition and the only reason we do it is to have fun. If you are not having fun because you are confused about the course or the rules ASK SOMEONE. But make sure you have fun.

Good luck and regards,
Alan