Some myths on car maintenance

 

Milstead Service Center: What are the common car maintenance myths?

Conroe, United States - July 18, 2022 /Milstead Service Center/

Busting Car Maintenance Myths 

Car owners are always open to new information and tips to better maintain their cars. However, not every car maintenance tip they get is accurate. Car owners must be discerning about what information to believe and what to discard. Milstead Service Center, an auto repair shop in Conroe Texas, debunks some of these misconceptions about car maintenance.

Myth #1 Oil must be changed every 3,000 miles

The modern cars manufactured within the last 10 years require an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, subject to the manufacturer. Earlier, oil companies and lube shops promoted the idea of oil change every 3,000 miles. However, now, smarter engine designs and more efficient oil compositions have allowed for a longer interval between oil changes. Car owners must subscribe to the owner’s manual recommendations to decide when the car needs an oil change.  

Myth #2 Premium fuel improves car performance

An average-priced vehicle requires regular fuel - the usual 86 octane fuel that meets basic quality standards. Owners who have invested in sports cars should use higher octane gas to keep turbo-charged engines in prime condition. These vehicles with a high-compression and performance engine need premium fuel that includes cleaners and protectants. Again, check the manual instructions.

Myth #3 Vehicle servicing at independent repair shops will void the warranty

Car owners can get their car serviced anywhere they want without the fear of losing the warranty. The warranty is valid until its expiration date. Any maintenance covered under a warranty can be conducted by any auto repair shop. The only thing needed is the receipts of the maintenance work specified in the owner’s manual as per the prescribed schedule. 

Myth #4 Replace all four tires simultaneously 

As long as the tires belong to the same brand and model, and are the same size, car owners need not replace all four. If the sidewall of the tire is damaged by a puncture or the puncture is bigger than a quarter-inch, a mechanic can patch it up to make it as good as new. Therefore, replace tires only when needed. 

Myth #5 Wash the car with dish or laundry soap

In an attempt to save money, car owners often end up damaging their car’s paint or causing rust marks by using dish soap or laundry detergent. The elements in these soaps harm the car’s wax finish and make it vulnerable to the elements of nature. 

Myth #6 A jump start and a short drive will recharge the battery 

This myth often lands car owners with a stranded car in the middle of nowhere. A battery needs a long drive to recharge completely. A load test at a gas station can show whether the battery can sustain the charge or if it needs to be connected to a charger to recharge completely. Car accessories extract a lot of power from the alternator leaving hardly any recharging capacity for the battery. 

Myth #7 Transmission fluid must be flushed every 50,000 miles

Modern vehicles are now equipped with extremely efficient transmission fuel that usually lasts 100,000 miles or even as long as the car’s lifespan. Car owners must consult the owner’s manual for transmission fuel flushing intervals. 

Myth #8 Rolling down the windows is more fuel-efficient than switching on the air conditioner 

Air conditioning uses more fuel. However, rolling down the windows does not improve fuel efficiency either. Rolling down the windows increases wind resistance that needs to be compensated by burning more fuel. Therefore, neither rolling down the windows nor turning on the AC is more fuel-efficient.

Why Milstead Service Center?

Established in 1972, Milstead Service Center’s ASE-certified technicians are experts at minor tune-ups to major engine rebuilds. Well-versed in the latest automotive technology, diagnostics, and repairs, the technicians work on most types of vehicles in Montgomery County. From auto repair, air conditioning, glass repairs, and towing to RV repair, maintenance services, and collision repair, Milstead Service Center can take care of all automotive needs.

Besides being focussed on giving impeccable customer service, the Milstead Service Center believes in dealing in original manufacturer parts or high-quality aftermarket parts only. 

If you are searching for a “mechanic near me” on Google, your search is at an end. Call us at (936) 441-3500 or visit us at 2416 1/2 N Frazier St for auto repair and maintenance services.