5 Car Maintenance Myths You Need to Debunk

Some motorists often make the mistake of following certain myths, thinking that they can save more on their maintenance costs if they follow these tips. More often than not, these myths only add to your expense instead of helping you out.

Here are some of the most popular and widely followed myths:

1. Changing your engine oil every 3,000 miles

This is actually not true. What you should do is to follow the instructions in your car manual and do not listen to the sales pitch of oil companies. Most vehicles can drive up to approximately 7,500 miles or more before they need to change their engine oil.

Replacing your oil before it is due is just a waste of money and product. On the contrary, if you are a heavy user and you often use your vehicle for towing or off-road traveling, then changing your oil every 3,000 miles may not seem like a bad idea. Make sure you get the most out of your oil before you decide to replace it.

2. Use a laundry detergent to wash your car

In reality, detergents strip off a car’s wax finish which will eventually lead your car to rust. Instead, stick to the KevianClean Car Wash Shampoo because it can effectively eliminate all traces of dirt without ruining your wax. Don’t forget to wash your undercarriage because it harbors all the road grime and mud from your everyday driving.

3. Opening your windows is more cost-efficient than turning on your air conditioner

Switching on your AC will definitely require more fuel but opening your windows doesn’t really save you gas. In fact, an open air builds upwind resistance making your car less aerodynamic which actually makes you use more fuel. You are basically using the same amount of fuel when you’re using your AC or your windows are down.

4. Premium gas is better than regular gas

Technically this may be true to some extent. It is more applicable to certain vehicles designed with high-compression engines. However, most standard vehicles are not built with this.

In effect, you won’t be able to maximize the benefits of using a premium gas. Most cars require using a regular gas.

5. Your battery will recharge after starting it in a couple of minutes

Not true. Before your battery charges full, it will take you hours of driving. A lot of other electrical devices in your vehicle draws power from your alternator which leaves it with a minimum amount left to charge the battery.