Two Common Fallacies About Car Maintenance
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Millions of people are fooled into believing those myths by savvy marketing and less-than-scrupulous mechanics. For example, the idea that your vehicle must have regular oil changes every 3,000 miles is an absolute falsehood. Similarly, your technician’s advice to have your radiator flushed once a year is more for his bottom line than for preserving your cooling system. Despite this, a lot of drivers spend unnecessary time and money following such advice.
In this brief article, I’m going to describe two common fallacies about car maintenance. These are myths that are perpetuated not only by your local mechanic, but by your dealership’s service technicians. Learn them and save your money. You will be glad you did.
#1 – Frequent Tune-Ups
Unless you’re driving a vehicle that was built when disco was still the rage, your car’s engine probably doesn’t need a tune-up. The service was performed in order to adjust the engine and moving parts during a time when carburetors were installed in every model. Today, the only car parts that need “tuning up” are the spark plugs. And those just need to be replaced every 50,000 miles. Everything else – the ignition, fuel injection, and idling of the engine – is controlled by computers.
Unfortunately, dealerships continue to tell their customers that they need to bring their vehicles in for a tune-up after 60,000 miles. That’s not surprising. After all, it increases their revenue.
#2 – New Air Filters
Think back to the last time you took your vehicle in for an oil change. Did the mechanic suggest a new air filter? Did he subtly imply that your car might sustain damage if you neglected to replace it? This is a common misconception. First, the air filter catches debris before it can enter the engine. Over time, the filter can accumulate so much dust and dirt that very little air can flow through. At that point, it’s a good idea to replace it. But, it takes a long time for the air filter to reach that stage.
Of course, that doesn’t stop auto technicians from recommending the replacement every time you visit. From their perspective, you come to their shop ready to spend $20 on an oil change and end up spending $40. What’s not to like?
Auto Maintenance Education Saves Money
Your vehicle requires ongoing preventative maintenance. That’s what helps ensure that it will last. But, it’s too easy to waste valuable time and money following bad advice from mechanics and dealership technicians. Remember, their goal is to increase their sales; many of them are willing to do it at your expense.
Chances are, your vehicle doesn’t need regular tune-ups. Nor do you need to replace the air filter as often as your mechanic might suggest. As always, follow your owners manual. It’s the best way to keep your car in great condition. If you find a mechanic you trust and believe is treating you fairly, then he will be your mechanic for the life of your car and all other vehicles you own.
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