5 Most-Common Car Maintenance Myths!
Find out from the auto professionals the true facts about car maintenance. Information that is just passed around DIY-selfers can be expensive and possibly even dangerous if not researched by the individual vehicle owner. Let us help you understand the truth about five of common vehicle maintenance myths:
Myth #1: A visual inspection of your tires can determine if they have the correct air pressure:
A tire may not show any outward signs, but yet it can be as much as 10 pounds per square inch low on air pressure. They will lose about one pound of pressure per month all by themselves. Schedule a tire service. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, causing the tires to wear out faster and increase fuel consumption.
Myth #2: An air filter has to look dirty before it has to be changed:
An air filter traps dirt so small that it cannot be seen. Even if it looks OK, it can be clogged. Once the small passages get clogged, the engine can have trouble breathing. Replacing an air filter is easy and less expensive than an engine repair. Follow the vehicle maintenance schedule found in your owner's manual.
Myth #3: Brake fluid never has to be changed:
Brake fluid has the ability to absorb water from the air. Over time this moisture can cause damage to the brake system, and dangerously lower the brake fluid boiling point. Brake fluid should be clear and transparent. Cloudy fluid means it's time for a change.
Myth #4: Engine coolant is still doing its job even if its bright green:
Over time the chemicals in engine coolant can become corrosive. Even though it looks OK, it can, in fact, be causing unseen and expensive cooling system damage. Making sure the engine coolant is clean can prevent both overheated engines and empty wallets.
Myth #5: Premium gas will guarantee premium performance:
There is no real reason to pay more money for premium fuel unless a vehicle's engine was designed and built to use extra octane. High-performance cars and trucks that actually require premium fuel are fewer nowadays. Use regular fuel unless the owner's manual calls for premium.
Before causing unnecessary damage to your vehicle or spending money for unnecessary repairs, consult with a reliable mechanic for advice on vehicle maintenance when in doubt about your vehicle's performance or components.
Have questions about car maintenance? We will be glad to answer them for you. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889 for more information. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Find out from the auto professionals the true facts about car maintenance. Information that is just passed around DIY-selfers can be expensive and possibly even dangerous if not researched by the individual vehicle owner. Let us help you understand the truth about five of common vehicle maintenance myths:
Myth #1: A visual inspection of your tires can determine if they have the correct air pressure:
A tire may not show any outward signs, but yet it can be as much as 10 pounds per square inch low on air pressure. They will lose about one pound of pressure per month all by themselves. Schedule a tire service. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, causing the tires to wear out faster and increase fuel consumption.
Myth #2: An air filter has to look dirty before it has to be changed:
An air filter traps dirt so small that it cannot be seen. Even if it looks OK, it can be clogged. Once the small passages get clogged, the engine can have trouble breathing. Replacing an air filter is easy and less expensive than an engine repair. Follow the vehicle maintenance schedule found in your owner's manual.
Myth #3: Brake fluid never has to be changed:
Brake fluid has the ability to absorb water from the air. Over time this moisture can cause damage to the brake system, and dangerously lower the brake fluid boiling point. Brake fluid should be clear and transparent. Cloudy fluid means it's time for a change.
Myth #4: Engine coolant is still doing its job even if its bright green:
Over time the chemicals in engine coolant can become corrosive. Even though it looks OK, it can, in fact, be causing unseen and expensive cooling system damage. Making sure the engine coolant is clean can prevent both overheated engines and empty wallets.
Myth #5: Premium gas will guarantee premium performance:
There is no real reason to pay more money for premium fuel unless a vehicle's engine was designed and built to use extra octane. High-performance cars and trucks that actually require premium fuel are fewer nowadays. Use regular fuel unless the owner's manual calls for premium.
Before causing unnecessary damage to your vehicle or spending money for unnecessary repairs, consult with a reliable mechanic for advice on vehicle maintenance when in doubt about your vehicle's performance or components.
Have questions about car maintenance? We will be glad to answer them for you. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889 for more information. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
