There are many car maintenance myths that are so common, it’s just assumed they’re facts. Some of these myths are harmless and won’t cause any issues to your vehicle, but some could actually cost money and maintenance in the long run.
Instead of relying on your dad or going along with the myths you’ve heard, take the time to learn some car basics. Here are some typical vehicle maintenance myths worth rethinking.
Myth #1: Premium Gas Is “Better” than Regular Gas
Fact: Cars are made with specific gas requirements, and it could be dangerous to use premium when your car doesn’t require it. In fact, you may cause damage to your engine using a higher grade fuel than recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. The mileage, performance, and overall condition of your engine will suffer when using the wrong type of fuel, leading to costly maintenance repairs because of the wear on your engine components.
Myth #2: Your Oil HAS to Be Changed Every 3,000 Miles
Fact: Most cars have recommended oil change schedules that can go up to 7,500 miles between changes under normal conditions. Some vehicles may be able to go 10,000 or 15,000 miles between oil changes, depending on the driving conditions. Follow the recommended schedule for oil changes in your owner’s manual and pay attention to the type of oil you use, as some types of oil are made to last longer. Changing your oil sooner won’t make your vehicle perform any better or last any longer.
Myth #3: A Tire Puncture Requires a Full Tire Replacement
Fact: Most auto shops can simply patch your tire for much less than a full tire replacement. The shop removes the tire from the rim, patches it from the inside with a rubber patch, and then puts it back on. A quality patch can last the remaining life of your tire, even if your tire is still new.
Myth #4: Tires Must be Inflated to Sidewall Specifications
Fact: Inflating your tires to the maximum pressure indicated on the sidewall of your tire isn’t necessarily the best idea. Always follow the recommended air pressure level from your owner’s manual, as they’ve tested the vehicle and found the most efficient inflation point to give you the best handling, fuel economy, and ride comfort. Inflating the tires too high or too low may cause uneven wear, a tire blowout, or worse.
Myth #5: Never Replace Just One Tire
Fact: Unless you have an all-wheel drive vehicle, you can get away with replacing just one tire. Most tire centers will recommend replacing two to keep them in pairs. However, as long as you replace the old tire with one of the same size, brand, speed rating, and tread pattern as your other tires, your vehicle will be fine.
Myth #6: Let Your Engine Warm up Before Driving
Fact: In older vehicles, allowing your car’s engine to warm up may have helped performance or gas mileage. Modern engines are made to start up and go without arming up; the engine and drivetrain actually warm up faster while driving. Just take it easy until the engine is warmed to regular running temperature. At this point, the engine is running at the right temperature to deliver peak performance, gas mileage, and efficiency.
Myth #7: The Dealership Must Perform Your Car’s Maintenance to Keep the Factory Warranty Valid
Fact: You may take your vehicle to any auto-repair shop to have maintenance or repairs done, as long as they are done according to the recommended timeline of the manufacturer. But it’s crucial to keep records of maintenance. If you take your vehicle to a shop, keep the receipts. If you perform the maintenance yourself, save all receipts for parts as proof in any warranty disputes. The only repairs the dealership is required to make is on a manufacturer recall. To see if your vehicle has had any recalls, check out the NHTSA.
Protect Your Car From Myths
Whether you’ve believed any of these car maintenance myths or really know your car facts, you can better protect your vehicle with an extended car warranty. Protect My Car offers several plans to fit your car and budget. Save on regular maintenance and other repairs, get roadside assistance and towing. Protect your vehicle with a policy from Protect My Car today.
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Title: Car Maintenance Myths, Car Care Facts | Protect My Car
Description: Believing car maintenance myths may be causing you to spend more money on maintenance, repairs, and parts. Learn your car care facts.
Alternative title 1: 7 Car Maintenance Myths You Wish You Knew
Alternative title 2: Car Maintenance Myths Dispelled
Protect My Car is a vehicle service contract provider, also referred to as extended car warranty provider, with multiple coverage plans for new and used vehicles with low to higher mileage to help meet your needs and budget. Protect My Car customers work directly with the company for customer service, claims administration and contract financing. No middleman or the need for third-party approval. All Protect My Car Plans include best-in-class claims and customer support, 24/7 roadside assistance, free oil changes and tire rotations and the exclusive PMC Rewards Plan, providing daily deals, giveaways, coupons, and thousands of ways to save money every day. Protect My Car has a 30-day money-back guarantee.