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Uzone.id – Regularly servicing your car is crucial for extending its lifespan and ensuring it remains reliable for your family. Unfortunately, there are many myths circulating in our communities about car maintenance that can be misleading or even harmful.
In this article, we’re going to help clarify the truth about proper vehicle care and debunk the myths that might be leading you astray. By doing so, we can promote better understanding and practices for maintaining your car, ultimately keeping it in top condition for years to come.
Myth 1: Do you really need to change your engine oil every 5,000 km?
The truth is that the recommended interval for changing your engine oil can differ based on several factors, including the type of oil you use, the condition of your car, and your driving habits.
The best way to determine when to change your oil is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual, which provides specific guidance for your car. Remember, both overdoing oil changes and neglecting them can negatively affect your engine’s performance.
“Consequently, oil change intervals differ greatly with the type of driving a car is subjected to or the quality type of the oil to be used. SAE has developed oil standards from which the owners of the vehicles can select proper oil for their cars,” stated Research Director at Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) International, Dr. Hans Schmidt.
Myth 2: Switching off the car’s air conditioning system makes the car more powerful
This is a myth. Surprisingly, application of air conditioning does not compete directly with the engine power in terms of consumption. The sensation people get when they switch on the air conditioner is often due to other parameters even if they are related with the power of the AC; these may include the road conditions, load on the vehicle, and the state of the engine.
Myth 3: Is that terrible noise from your brakes a sign of engine trouble?
Actually, any strange sounds coming from your brakes signal that something needs fixing. It usually means that your brake pads are worn out or that the brake discs are rusted and sticking.
Ignoring these issues can be dangerous, as they can significantly compromise your safety on the road. It’s essential to address brake problems promptly to ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive.
Myth 4: This engine must be warmed up before it is used
This turns out to be a myth. As it is with most modern cars with injection systems, it is not advisable to warm up the engine before using it. It only takes some 5 minutes of operation of the engine, without applying full throttle at the start.
Myth 5: Is it more expensive to fill up the gas tank in the morning because gasoline is thicker?
Let’s clear this up: the price of gasoline doesn’t change depending on the time of day you fill up, nor does it spoil if you fill up at a specific time. What really matters is whether you choose regular or premium fuel.
Any perceived differences in price or performance are often influenced by psychological factors or the specific condition of your vehicle. So, you don’t need to worry about when to fill up; just focus on choosing the right fuel for your car.
Myth 6: New cars don’t require any maintenance
This one is a myth because even cars that are brand new, require some services such as the change of oil, replacement of the filter, and others for the standard functioning of the car. By doing so, the efficiency of the car will improve and future complications will be avoided to an extent.
“Regular checks are very important, especially for cars that are often used in extreme conditions. We always encourage customers to take the car to the workshop every 10,000 kilometers,” explained John Smith, a senior mechanic at Autobahn Service Center in Germany.
Myth 7: After a long trip, cleaning the car is very important
Indeed, it is not a secret that washing the car after a long trip can wash off the dirt and salt that adheres to the car’s body. Nonetheless, it is crucial to inspect the part of the car that is at the base, like undercarriage and wheels to ensure there is no pointing to some harm that results from the long journey.
Recommendations That Would Enhance Proper Management Of Your Car
Among the first two things that could be done is to follow the manual book. The manual book is the best for knowing when the proper Maintenance is. Another source of information that car owners can get is indicator lights on the vehicle’s dashboard in addition to the manual book. If it lights up, there is a component out there that is faulty. It’s that simple. Thus, first, examine a repair shop if there is only an indicator light on.
Another area of life that is determined by quality fuel is car maintenance. By using quality fuel it can assist in prolonging the lifespan of the engines and minimize cases of damage. Please do not exclude the tire pressure from the list of factors to monitor and always check. According to the research, appropriate tire pressure will enhance the fuel consumption in the car besides enhancing comfort while driving.
The last one is the most important: to wash it and perform other actions according to an established schedule to avoid more significant harm.
There are many myths regarding car maintenance which is quite confusing for the owners of the vehicles. When you know the basic facts you will be in a good position to extend the life expectancy of your car. But you need to know that regular car maintenance is not only inexpensive but also effective at preventing traffic accidents.
