Milex Complete Auto Care is here to debunk some common myths many Americans believe about their cars.
To keep your car in tip-top shape and ensure your vehicle retains its resale value, stop adhering to common maintenance misconceptions. Even though there were more than 276 million registered cars in the United States in 2019, few American drivers understand how their car engines get them from Point A to Point B.
Common misperceptions can cause people to make bad decisions that impact their wallets, or even put them in danger. Believing some of the common car myths often prompts people to over-service their vehicles. Unfortunately, the web is full of misinformation. The proliferation of social media has led to an increase in misinformation. Falsehoods are 70 percent more likely to be retweeted on Twitter than the truth, according to research conducted by the MIT Sloan School of Management.
If you adhere to the old wives’ tales that driving a dirty car improves fuel efficiency or that filling your gas tank in the morning helps you get better quality fuel, it’s time to face facts. Milex Complete Auto Care, your source for general automotive repair and maintenance, is here to help you stop falling for falsehoods. Here are some of the top myths about your car you need to stop believing.
1. Higher-octane fuel boosts power. Cars with powerful engines require premium gasoline because it is less combustible. Many people believe high-octane, premium gasoline will improve the power of their ride. In truth, there is no benefit to using a higher-octane gasoline than your owner’s manual specifies. Not only is premium gas more expensive, but it isn’t better than regular at preventing the buildup of engine deposits.
2. I need to change my oil every 3,000 miles. While many quick-lube chains recommend getting your oil changed every 3,000 miles, it’s no longer necessary. Many older cars did require oil changes every 3,000 miles, but new cars and the development of synthetic oils allow people to drive up to 10,000 miles between oil changes.
3. I need to replace all my tires at the same time. While the Tire Industry Association recommends replacing all four tires at the same time to ensure even wear and tear, there are options to help save you money. Mechanics can install new tires on the rear axle, which will prevent the car from losing control while turning during wet weather. Regularly rotating your tires will prevent uneven wear and tear and keep you safe on the road.
4. I need to warm up my car when it’s cold out before I hit the road. Drivers in cold climates often turn on their cars during the winter to allow the engine to warm up before they hit the road. While it’s certainly more pleasant to buckle up in a vehicle that’s at the right temperature, warming up your car wastes gas and may damage your engine. Your car engine will warm up faster when you start driving. A better option is to drive slowly until your car reaches an optimal temperature.
5. Hybrid vehicles are slow. Fuel-efficient vehicles typically have smaller engines than regular cars to improve fuel efficiency. Smaller engines have less horsepower and torque. As a result, hybrid cars may not be able to reach speeds as high as regular cars. While hybrids might not be a good option for drag racing, they are more than capable of keeping up on your daily commute. Carmakers are responding by diligently working to create hybrid vehicles with more horsepower.
6. Leather seats are best. While leather is easy to clean and comfortable, it does have some drawbacks. Over time, ultraviolet rays and high temperatures can cause the leather seats in your car to fade and crack. Leather is also susceptible to rips, tears, and seam slippage, which can be costly to repair. Plus, it gets hot in the summer and cold in the winter, which can be uncomfortable for people before the vehicle’s interior reaches an optimal temperature.
7. I need to visit the dealer for maintenance to keep my vehicle warranty valid. At least 31 percent of car owners believe they need to get maintenance done at their dealership to keep their vehicle warranty valid, according to the American Automobile Association. As long as car owners document maintenance and repairs, they can get them done at any reputable mechanic shop.
8. Car batteries last five years. The average car battery actually lasts between three and five years. AAA recommends getting your battery life tested on a regular basis after three years because driving habits and climate can impact the life of your battery. If your car is slow to start or you notice a rotten-egg smell, your battery may be on its last legs.
Milex Complete Auto Care is committed to keeping you informed about the latest maintenance innovations by debunking car myths. Make sure to keep your car running smoothly by keeping up with regular maintenance. Click here to find a Milex Complete Auto Care location near you.