The internet has given us access a vast amount of information that’s only a click, scroll or tap away. As much as that’s a good thing, it has also caused misinformation to run rampant on social media shares and twitter posts. So we’re going to take some time to dispel some common car repair, maintenance and driving myths.
Myth #1: Let Your Engine Warm up Several Minutes Before Driving
Unless you live in Alaska or a region where below zero temperatures are the norm, it isn’t necessary to let the engine run for several minutes before you drive. This was once recommended for older model vehicles to increase engine efficiency.
However, new engines made after the late eighties and early nineties are so advanced and finely calibrated that they don’t require this. In fact even in colder climates, it may only be necessary to warm up your car for 30 seconds. So save gas and energy by skipping the old school, warm-up–your–car habit and just drive.
Myth #2: You Can Ignore the Check Engine Light, It’s Just a Loose Gas Cap
While it’s true that sensitive, pressure-based electronic sensors in your vehicle can cause the check engine light to illuminate erroneously, this doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Always pay attention to this notification.
Sometimes, the check engine light will go on for something as minor as a loose gas cap. If tightening your gas cap fixes the problem, then great. The light should go off and you can be on your way.
If not, then you should bring your vehicle into a San Diego auto repair shop for an inspection to see what’s wrong with it. Ignoring the check engine light, even if it is an electronic problem or small issue, is not a good idea.
Myth #3: Grease the Vehicle Chassis Every Six Months
Many years ago, cars and trucks needed their suspension systems greased or lubricated every six months or at least once a year. Unless you drive an older model vehicle or live in climate with extreme weather conditions, regularly lubricating the chassis of your vehicle is no longer needed.
Today’s vehicles were made with sealed ball joints and ends that require no additional lubrication or at least minimal lubrication when compared to these older vehicles. So your vehicle might need suspension repair or lubrication at 60,000 or 100,000 mile mark instead of every six months.
Though you might not make a special trip for chassis lubrication, this auto suspension repair might be thrown in as a bill pad. Let’s say you’re at an auto repair shop in San Diego for an oil change. They suggest you’re due for a chassis lubrication as well. You’re not really sure what that means but it doesn’t cost that much more so you go ahead and do it. Probably not necessary.
Myth #4: You Need an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles or 3 Months
Speaking of oil changes, this persisting myth continues to be promoted by many fast lube shops largely because their business depends on it. Change your oil. By all means. But most vehicles do not require a 3000-mile oil change.
Thanks to advancements in synthetic oil and today’s engines, an oil change every 5000 miles or even 7500 miles is more common. If you’re looking at it via months versus miles, a six month oil change rather than a three month oil change is generally needed unless you drive extensively.
