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Originally Posted On: https://www.aamcoblog.com/Article/Busting-Common-Car-Maintenance-Myths-To-Keep-You-on-the-Road

Busting Common Car Maintenance Myths To Keep You on the Road

Overwhelmed by car maintenance myths? This post dives into common misconceptions so you can save money and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Car maintenance is a pain, we’ve all been there. You’re sitting in the driver’s seat, late for work because you hit snooze one too many times.

Then, you hear a strange noise coming from under the hood. Maybe it’s a clunk or a rattle, or even just a weird whine you hadn’t noticed before.

Suddenly, you’re filled with dread. “What if this is it?”, you think, “What if my car is about to fall apart?”. This feeling of impending doom is pretty much universal for car owners, especially when unexpected sounds pop up.

The Real Deal About Car Maintenance Myths

A lot of anxiety about car maintenance comes from common myths and misconceptions.

Some get passed down like old wives’ tales, while others spread like wildfire online. The problem? Acting on bad advice can do more harm than good.
Plus, it might even lead to unnecessary repairs, and nobody wants to waste their hard-earned cash like that. Car problems are already stressful enough without adding unnecessary worry to the mix.

Busting Common Myths That Could Be Hurting Your Car

Let’s tackle some popular car maintenance myths head-on, separating fact from fiction so you can keep your car running smoothly for miles to come. You might even discover a few things you’ve been doing wrong with your car repairs.

Myth #1: Premium Gas is Always Better

It seems logical, right?

Premium gas, premium performance. But here’s the reality check – most cars are perfectly happy with regular fuel. Your car’s performance depends on a variety of factors.

Unless your owner’s manual explicitly states your engine needs premium for optimal performance, using it won’t magically make your car faster. It’s like giving a regular coffee drinker a double espresso – it might sound fancy, but it won’t fundamentally change their energy level.

Myth #2: Oil Changes? I Only Need Them Once a Year

Remember back in the day when you’d get an oil change every 3,000 miles like clockwork? Those days are mostly gone. Oil changes are an essential aspect of car care.

Modern engines and synthetic oils are tough. However, it’s still crucial to follow what your owner’s manual suggests for oil change intervals.

Depending on your car and driving habits, this might be anywhere from every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or even longer. Ignoring regular oil changes is a surefire way to risk engine damage.

Myth #3: Warming Up Your Car for 10 Minutes is Essential

Unless you’re driving a vintage car, lengthy warm-up sessions are a thing of the past. Modern engines are good to go after a minute or two, especially in milder climates. This isn’t just about being impatient.

Excessive idling wastes fuel, costing you money and polluting the environment. Plus, did you know that today’s cars (and their cabin air filters) are designed for efficiency and performance? Get in, buckle up, drive (responsibly), and enjoy the ride.

Myth #4: Transmission Fluid Lasts Forever

Remember the old adage “out of sight, out of mind”? Well, it doesn’t apply to transmission fluid. While not as frequent as oil changes, your car’s transmission fluid needs refreshing too.

Ignoring it is like neglecting to change the oil in your deep fryer – eventually, it’s going to turn into a sticky mess that impacts performance and causes bigger problems later. Your car needs regular attention to stay in tip-top shape.

Your best bet is to follow those manufacturer recommendations. Pay attention to any signs that your car might be hinting at, like rough shifting or strange noises during gear changes.

Myth #5: As Long as I Have Some Brake Fluid, It’s All Good

This is one area of vehicle maintenance where you never want to mess around. Low brake fluid usually signals a leak somewhere in the braking system, which can compromise your car’s ability to stop safely. Brake maintenance is crucial for your safety on the road.

Don’t put a Band-Aid on this – if you notice your brake fluid is low, it’s crucial to figure out why. Ignoring it is playing a dangerous game with your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Myth #6: Car Batteries Will Warn Me Before Dying

While car batteries have come a long way, they don’t send out a farewell email before kicking the bucket. Batteries are essential for starting your car and powering electrical components.

Sure, sometimes you’ll get warning signs, such as a slow engine crank or dim headlights. Other times, they go kaput with zero notice, leaving you stranded. This is where having jumper cables or a portable jump starter in your trunk comes in handy.

Myth #7: Rotating Tires Is Only Necessary If They Look Uneven

Don’t judge a tire’s wear and tear by its looks alone. Tire rotations might seem minor, but they’re one of those preventative car maintenance steps that pay off in the long run. Vehicle maintenance can save you money and headaches in the future.

Regular rotations help make sure the tread wears down evenly. Plus, you’ll also extend the lifespan of those tires and get better gas mileage. Maintaining your car’s components is crucial for its longevity.

Check your owner’s manual for the recommended tire rotation intervals, and you’ll be cruising smoothly.

Myth #8: Blasting the AC is Worse for Fuel Efficiency Than Driving With the Windows Down

This one is a bit of a toss-up. It actually depends on a few things – mainly your speed and driving conditions. Fuel efficiency is a common concern for car owners.

At slower city speeds, opening the windows might save you a bit of fuel. However, once you’re cruising on the highway, using your car’s AC often becomes the more fuel-efficient choice. This is because open windows can disrupt your car’s aerodynamics, making the engine work harder.

Myth #9: Using Plain Water in a Pinch is Fine for Your Coolant

Coolant serves a bigger purpose than just keeping your engine from overheating – it also contains anti-corrosion properties that protect vital components. Proper coolant is essential for regulating engine temperature.

In an absolute pinch, and we mean an absolute emergency, plain water can temporarily get you moving. However, never make this a habit. The potential risks to your car’s cooling system, from corrosion and rust, just aren’t worth it.

Myth #10: Only the Dealer Can Perform Proper Maintenance

Many people believe that only the dealer can perform proper maintenance on their vehicle. While dealers are certainly qualified and have specific knowledge about the vehicles they sell, they are not the only option. There are many reputable independent mechanics who are fully capable of providing excellent car maintenance.

In fact, some independent mechanics may even offer more personalized service and lower prices. It’s important to research and choose a reliable mechanic, but don’t feel limited to the dealership for all your car maintenance needs.

Myth #11: All Tire Brands Are the Same

Tires are just rubber circles, right? Wrong. Different tire brands offer different qualities in terms of performance, durability, and safety.

Some tires are designed for high performance, while others are designed for longevity or fuel efficiency.

When it’s time to replace your tires, do some research or consult with a trusted mechanic to find the best tires for your driving needs and conditions. Investing in good quality tires can significantly affect your car’s performance and safety.

Myth #12: DIY Car Maintenance is Always Cheaper

While it’s true that doing some car maintenance yourself can save you money, it’s not always the case. Modern cars are complex, and without the right tools and knowledge, you might end up causing more harm than good. This can lead to more expensive repairs down the road.

It’s essential to know your limits and when it’s time to call a professional. Sometimes, paying for a service can actually save you money in the long run by preventing bigger issues.

Myth #13: If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It

This old saying might apply to some things, but not to car maintenance. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding major problems. Just because something isn’t broken now doesn’t mean it won’t be in the future.

Regular check-ups and maintenance can catch issues early before they turn into costly repairs. This includes things like changing fluids, checking brakes, and inspecting belts and hoses.

Myth #14: Your Car Needs Frequent Tune-Ups

The term “tune-up” is a bit outdated when it comes to modern cars. Older vehicles did require frequent tune-ups to maintain performance, but today’s cars are designed to go much longer without needing extensive maintenance.

Instead of thinking in terms of tune-ups, focus on the specific maintenance intervals recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. This includes oil changes, brake inspections, air filter checks, and other routine services.

Myth #15: You Should Always Use the Manufacturer’s Parts

While using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts can be a good idea, it’s not always necessary. There are many high-quality aftermarket parts available that can perform just as well, and sometimes even better, than OEM parts.

Aftermarket parts can also be more affordable (your credit card will thank you)and offer more options. However, it’s crucial to ensure that any parts used are compatible with your vehicle and meet necessary standards.

The Takeaway: Stay Informed About Car Maintenance

Car maintenance can feel overwhelming, but knowledge really is power. This becomes particularly important when dealing with misinformation about your car’s health. You want to be informed and using credible sources of information for your specific make and model of car can really make a difference.

Following those recommended service intervals, learning your car’s quirks, and tackling minor repairs (such as windshield wiper replacement, tire pressure, etc) goes a long way. Your car will thank you in the long run.

Conclusion

Mastering a few basics and keeping those car maintenance myths at bay keeps your vehicle running smoothly and keeps your mind at ease. A regular car maintenance schedule can extend the life of your vehicle.

Now you’re not just driving, you’re driving with confidence. Understanding your car’s needs will make you a more informed and confident car owner.

By staying informed and debunking these common myths, you can avoid unnecessary stress and expenses. Car maintenance doesn’t have to be a mystery. You don’t want to see that dreaded check engine light come on, or have to shell out cash for expensive maintenance services.

With the right knowledge and practices, you can create a routine car maintenance checklist to keep your vehicle in top shape and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with it.