A few myths may be influencing driver’s choices despite the advancement in car maintenance practices and repairs. These myths can cause drivers to incur excessive costs and make the lifespan of a vehicle shorter than it was intended. Here, we clear a few common car maintenance and car repair misconceptions that are misleading drivers. Through this guide, we are trying to inform the drivers about them so that they can maintain their vehicles appropriately.
1. Myth: Premium Fuel is Beneficial for All Cars
Most drivers do think that all vehicles will benefit in the area of performance and fuel economy by using premium fuel. In fact, the majority of cars are designed to operate using regular or standard fuel. Cars with high-performance engines that are explicitly built to process high-octane fuels are the only ones that can utilize high-performance fuel. Until and unless, premium fuel is not specified in owner’s manual guidelines, only use regular fuel.
2. Myth: Motor Oil Turns Bad After 3000 Miles and it must be replaced then.
Although 3000 miles was the golden rule in the past, with today’s engines and oil formulations, this limit has been extended. Most cars can last between 5000 and 7500 miles between oil changes, depending on where the car is driven and what oil it has. Before performing the actual procedure, always refer to the vehicle’s manual or contact a technician for instructions on how frequently the procedure should be done.
3. Myth: For Maintenance, You Must Go to the Dealership
Other people always think that only dealerships are authorized and fully capable when it comes to maintaining the vehicles for the people. The problem is that Independent auto repair shops like Applewood auto care do maintenance without voiding warranties. There is often a higher cost associated with having such services done at a dealership, otherwise, competent local shops provide great service for a better price.
4. Myth: Brake Pads Should Only Be Replaced When They Squeak
Sets of brake pads should be replaced with new ones only after the pads have started producing sounds. But having to wait for a squeaking sound can be dangerous as it indicates that most probably the pads are almost worn out. Routine brake inspection and maintenance are critical and will help prevent damaging the brakes as noise is watched to come before.
5. Myth: Having the air conditioning on is less efficient than simply having the windows completely open
Some people think that the efficiency of fuel drops heavily when using air conditioning especially when it is compared to open windows. But in most cases where speed is very high, windows that are opened cause turbulence that can affect petrol economy greater than using air conditioning. As a general rule, air conditioning is more economical at high speeds while open windows are good at low speeds.
6. Assumption: All Tires Should Be Changed at Once
Many people believe that it is necessary to replace all four tires at once. Though, replacing tires in pairs is more ideal as it helps in balancing. But you don’t necessarily have to change four of them, if only one is worn. To keep a regular check on rotations and alignments can assist tires in lasting longer and also ensure balanced wear across all tires.
7. Myth: Washing the Car Just To Enhance the Looks
There is a popular perception that washing is used for enhancing the outer looks of the vehicle but it also helps in preserving the paint and helps in rust prevention.
Other factors like dirt, salts, and other particulates can result in corrosion to metal and adversely affect the vehicle’s coat. Frequent washing and waxing can help in preventing rust and will also enable the car to remain looking better and functioning better over time.
8. Myth: Engine Flush Is a Good Thing to Have Always Done On An Engine
Older engines accumulate deposits and build up and that can be removed by an engine flush but this may not be the case for all vehicles. Frequent flushing could even damage newer engines which do not have such specifications from the maker. A specialist can assist if your engine actually requires such flushing in the first place or regular oil changes are effective at doing so.
9. Myth: Ignoring the Check Engine Light Is Acceptable as Long as the Vehicle Runs Smoothly
Many drivers overlook the check engine light if other parts of the vehicle seem to be functioning normally, presuming it is a non-issue. But in actual, the vehicle’s check engine light is an indicator of faults that may get worse over time. If this warning light is ignored, it can lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you are able to get it diagnosed earlier, there is a lot of time, money and stress that could be saved.
10. Myth: Independent Shops don’t Deliver Quality Repairs
There is a common belief that only dealerships specialize in quality car repairs, however, even independent repair shops such as Applewood Auto Care have certified technicians who are well qualified and skilled. The repair costs are reasonable and the quality is good because the shops use the same tools and parts dealerships do. Also, small businesses care about their customers in order to earn their trust in the neighborhood, so high-quality service is expected.
Conclusion
Some of these myths and misconceptions can cost car owners money or damage their vehicles. Regular servicing, which is carried out by qualified personnel, is essential in avoiding unnecessary costs and preserving the health of the car. So come to Applewood Auto Care and get the right advice and best auto repair service in Lakewood because only the best of every car will be on the roads.
