In the car care world, preventative maintenance myths are everywhere. You’ve probably heard things like “oil changes are required every 3,000 miles.” Or, maybe you’ve been told that your car battery will always last for 5 years, regardless of where and how you drive.
The truth is that sometimes, what people think is fact is actually closer to fiction but they don’t know it. In other words, what they believe is true may have been true at one time or have a shard of truth to it. For example, in decades gone by, most cars DID need an oil change every 3,000 miles. With today’s modern models, however, they can often go 5,000 – 7,000 miles between oil changes. We’ve found that some of the most common preventative maintenance myths were once based in fact. But, they’re now outdated information that could actually steer you in the wrong direction when it comes to quality car care.
Beware of These Common Preventative Maintenance Myths
Let’s take a look at some of these so-called ‘facts’ and set the record straight so you can be better informed about what your vehicle needs and when.
Myth #1: Air filters only need replacement when they’re visibly dirty.
Reality: An air filter might not look dirty to the naked eye but can still be clogged and reduce engine efficiency. Replacing the air filter at regular intervals as recommended by the manufacturer ensures optimal engine performance and fuel economy.
Myth #2: You don’t need to check your tire pressure regularly.
Reality: The condition of your tires plays a significant role in your driving safety. Of course, the tire’s tread is very important as it’s what helps your vehicle maintain traction on the road. But don’t forget about tire pressure. Driving on over- or under-inflated tires not only impacts your fuel economy but also how your vehicle handles and how long your tires last.
Make it a practice to routinely check your tire pressure, or pay attention to the dashboard gauge if your vehicle has one. And, if you’re headed out for a road trip, make sure a thorough tire inspection is part of your pre-trip checklist.
Myth #3: Maintenance should only be done at the dealership where you bought your vehicle.
Reality: While dealerships are equipped to handle all types of repairs and maintenance, they are often more expensive than independent mechanics. As long as the mechanic is certified and uses the correct parts and procedures, you can get quality service outside of the dealership. Regular maintenance from a trusted independent shop will keep your warranty intact and your vehicle running smoothly.
Myth #4: Brake fluid never needs to be changed.
Reality: Brake fluid DOES need to be routinely replaced, typically every 2-3 years. Check with your mechanic or owner’s manual to find out what is recommended for your specific make and model.
Research done by AAA revealed that just under 20% of people thought that brake fluid NEVER needed to be changed. This is one of those preventative maintenance myths that could certainly do more harm than good if you believe it. That’s because over time, brake fluid absorbs water, which can then damage internal brake parts and lead to brake failure.
Why Should You Be Aware of Preventative Maintenance Myths and Learn the TRUTH About Car Care?
If there’s ONE single thing that can help your vehicle last longer and run smoothly it’s this … preventative maintenance! That’s because routine maintenance done by your trusted mechanic will keep parts and systems working properly and efficiently. And, if there’s something starting to go wrong, it can often be caught and fixed before it becomes a bigger, more expensive problem.
According to a recent Reuters article, the average age of cars and light trucks on the road in the U.S. today is 12.6 years. If YOU want to be able to SAFELY keep and drive your vehicle for a similar time period, regular preventative maintenance is essential!
If you’re ready to protect your vehicle investment and do what it takes to keep your car in top shape, contact us to schedule an appointment today! The experienced mechanics here at our Tempe auto repair shop look forward to helping you drive safely and smoothly for many years and miles to come.
