4 Car Maintenance Myths Busted
Car maintenance is critical for good performance and a long lifespan. However, there are many common practices of car care and maintenance that are in fact based on myths. Don't let these fallacies draw you in. If you're not careful, you may end up spending more than necessary for services that don't do anything to help your vehicle. These myths have been busted, so you can nix the unnecessary services from your budget.
Myth: The Tire's Sidewall Tells You the Pressure
Image via Flickr by Sean MacEntee
You'll find some handy information on the tire's sidewall that's meant to tell you the best pressure for those tires. While this is a fine starting recommendation if you don't have any other information, it's not necessarily the best option for your particular vehicle. Instead, choose your pressure based on the automaker's recommendation. There's typically a sticker in the glove box, on the fuel door, or in the doorjamb on the driver side that will give you a better recommendation for your tires.
Myth: You Need an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles
The 3,000-mile recommendation is an old standard, but it's not necessary for today's more refined vehicles. Sure, the oil manufacturers and lube shops may try and sell you on the fallacy still, but automakers can set you straight. Most vehicles do fine with a change every 7,500 miles or more. Some vehicles recommend 10,000 or even 15,000 mile intervals. Check your manufacturer's manual for a clearer idea of how often you should change your oil.
Myth: Premium Fuel is Better for Your Car
Unless you're driving a premium vehicle, you don't need premium fuel. There are a few vehicles that require premium gas, like a Jaguar XE, Porsche 718 Boxster, or Alfa Romeo 4C. If you're not driving this type of car, however, you simply don't need the premium fuel. The average car runs just as well with regular fuel as it does with premium gas.
You're not doing any damage to the car with the more affordable option, but you are draining your wallet unnecessarily for the upgrade. Do you get better gas mileage with premium gas? Perhaps moderately so on a very high-end vehicle, but unless you're racing, the difference is rarely worth it.
Myth: Your Battery Recharges Quickly After a Jump
Your car's battery won't start so you get a quick jump from a neighbor. The vehicle seems to be running smoothly so you assume all is well and your vehicle operation is back on track. Unfortunately, it's not that easy. It may take hours before your battery is fully charged again, particularly in the harsh winter months.
If you want to find out whether your battery is capable of holding a full charge, take it to a gas station for a load test. If you get good news, keep in mind that you may still need to spend a good chunk of the day on a battery charger to get back to full charge.
Keep these important car care facts in mind as you manage your maintenance schedule and regular care, so you're not investing more than necessary to keep your car in prime condition.
