Car Maintenance Myths – Busted

Modern cars are complex amalgamations of computers and mechanics, and maintaining them is, in itself, a reasonably complex process. However, there are a number of myths and inaccuracies associated with car maintenance that are either holdovers from an older generation of vehicles or just plain incorrect.

In this article, we’ll be busting some of those car maintenance myths.

You Should Change Your Oil Every 3000 Miles

The vast majority of modern cars can travel for 7500 miles or more, in optimal driving conditions, without needing an oil change. When it comes to how frequently you should be changing your oil, its best to pay attention to the manual for you car and not your local garage. After all, they have a vested interest in getting you to change your oil as often as possible because they’ll most like be the ones you’re paying to do it. 

The Number on the Side of Your Tires Is the Correct Pressure

Actually, that number is the maximum tire pressure those tires are rated for. If you’re looking for the correct tire pressure for you particular car, you can often find it listed in the manual or on a sticker in the glove box or under the fuel cap.

Flush Your Coolant Regularly

While it is a good idea to keep an eye on your coolant levels to make sure nothing is leaking, you should only need to flush your coolant every 60,000 miles or so. This is probably another maintenance myth cooked up by lube shops to drum up business, so don’t waste your money.

Use Dishwashing Detergent to Wash Your Car

Absolutely don’t do this! There is a reason that there are specific car washing products. Most car shampoos contain a wax that both gives your car that lovely shine and protects the paint underneath. Using household products or dishwashing detergent will strip that layer of wax off and put your paint at risk.

Warm-Up Your Car Before Setting Off

Unless you live somewhere where the mercury regularly drops into the minus numbers, you don’t need to warm up your car. This advice is probably a holdover from previous generations of less efficient engines. The vast majority of modern vehicles don’t need to be shaken out before taking them on the road. You’re just wasting time and gas.

Learn to Drive in Nevada Today!

The Northwest Driving School and Traffic School provides the Las Vegas community with live driving and traffic classes taught by seasoned instructors. All of our driving instructors have passed background checks. Each automobile is DMV safety-approved, and every member of the Northwest family is committed to providing excellent drivers ed and behind the wheel instruction.

At Northwest, you can expect to find outstanding classes, both on campus and behind the wheel, that are engaging, fact-filled, entertaining, and geared toward success. 

We make no bones about it, we believe that Northwest provides the best driving lessons in Las Vegas, no matter your age or background. We are proud of the fact that 98% of our students pass their test on the first try. Call us at (702) 403-1592 to start your driving adventure with one of our expert instructors.

Written by:
Rich Heinrich
Master Instructor, Emeritus