As a car owner, you’ve likely heard many pieces of advice on how to maintain your vehicle. However, not all of this advice is true, and following common car maintenance myths can actually harm your car. In this article, we’ll debunk some of the most common car maintenance myths.
Myth #1: You Need to Change Your Oil Every 3,000 Miles
One of the most common car maintenance myths is that you need to change your oil every 3,000 miles. This myth may have been true decades ago, but modern engines and oil technology have improved significantly. Most vehicles can now go much longer between oil changes, typically between 7,500 and 10,000 miles.
How often you should change your oil depends on your vehicle, driving conditions, and oil type. Consult your car’s manual for specific recommendations and follow the oil change interval listed. Visit an authorized service center such as VIOC Pos to check your car’s specific recommendations.
Myth #2: You Should Warm Up Your Car Before Driving
Another common car maintenance myth is that you should warm up your car before driving, especially in cold weather. While it’s true that cold temperatures can affect engine performance, warming up your car for an extended period is unnecessary and can waste fuel.
Modern engines are designed to warm up quickly, usually within a minute or two of driving. You can still take it easy for the first few minutes of driving to allow the engine to warm up, but there’s no need to let your car idle for an extended period.
Myth #3: Premium Gasoline is Better for Your Car
Many car owners believe that using premium gasoline instead of regular is better for their car. However, unless your car specifically requires premium gasoline, it won’t provide any additional benefits.
Premium gasoline has a higher octane rating, which can prevent engine knocking in high-performance engines. But if your car’s engine isn’t designed for premium gasoline, using it won’t improve performance or fuel economy.
Myth #4: You Need to Replace Both Headlights if One Goes Out
If one of your car’s headlights goes out, you may think you need to replace both. However, this isn’t true. While it’s a good idea to replace both headlights if they’re both close to burning out, there’s no need to replace a working headlight just because the other one went out.
Myth #5: You Should Inflate Your Tires to the Maximum Pressure Listed on the Tire
Another common car maintenance myth is that you should inflate your tires to the maximum pressure listed on the tire. However, overinflating your tires can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced handling, and a harsher ride.
Instead, inflate your tires to the pressure listed in your car’s manual or on the tire information placard, usually located on the driver’s side door jamb. Or you can visit a Valvoline pos shop and let an authorized mechanic do the work. This pressure is based on the weight of your car and provides optimal handling and ride comfort.
Myth #6: You Should Replace Your Cabin Air Filter Every Oil Change
Replacing your cabin air filter is essential for maintaining good air quality in your car’s cabin. However, as many car owners believe, you don’t need to replace it with every oil change.
The frequency at which you should replace your cabin air filter depends on your driving conditions. If you frequently drive on dirt roads or in dusty environments, you may need to replace it more often. Check your car’s manual for specific recommendations.
In conclusion, there are many common car maintenance myths that can harm your car if followed. It’s important to rely on accurate information when maintaining your vehicle.
Remember to consult your car’s manual and trusted sources for advice on car maintenance. By separating fact from fiction, you can ensure that your car remains safe, reliable, and running smoothly.