Car Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

Car Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid


December 8, 2023 | Kaddy Gibson

Car Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid


The Importance Of Routine Car Maintenance

Entitled peopleShutterstock

Advertisement

Let’s talk car maintenance.

We all know that little warning light on the dashboard can be pretty annoying, but ignoring it can lead to bigger headaches down the road (pun intended).

Routine maintenance isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s also about extending your vehicle’s life, improving fuel efficiency, and ensuring your safety on the road.

Here are some common maintenance mistakes that can easily be rectified and help keep your vehicle in tip top shape.

Skipping Regular Oil Changes

Things needed for an oil changeMídia, Pexels

Advertisement

Skilling regular oil changes is like running a marathon without water—it’ll wear your engine out faster than you can say, “check the dipstick”.

Check your manufacturer’s guide for the recommended oil and schedule. Your engine will thank you with longevity and better performance.

Neglecting Tire Care

Checking tire pressureNew Africa, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

Tires are extremely important. Both under-inflated and over-inflated tires are bad news.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Properly inflated tires will improve fuel efficiency, extend tire life, and improve handling.

Also, don’t forget to rotate your tires periodically to maintain proper balance and distribute wear evenly.

Forgetting Brake Maintenance

Brake PadsAdobe

Advertisement

Don’t ignore those squeaky brakes or that pulsating pedal.

Brake pads and rotors wear out, and ignoring it can lead to even more costly repairs—or worse, brake failure.

Get those brakes checked and serviced as needed.

Ignoring the Check Engine Light

Check Engine LightTexoma

Advertisement

The check engine light may be annoying, but it’s important because it’s trying to tell you something. It’s worth it to get a diagnostic check done to determine the issue before bigger issues arise.

Not Replacing Air Filters

Air filterAdobe

Advertisement

A dirty air filter will suffocate your engine, resulting in decreased performance and fuel efficiency. Your owner’s manual will recommend exactly how often to replace your air filters. However, replacing them regularly will help keep airflow smooth and your engine happy.

Neglecting Fluid Levels

Car Fluid LevelsNapa Canada

Advertisement

Your vehicle’s fluids need regular checks. This includes: coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid.

Low levels or dirty fluids can cause engine overheating or transmission problems. Keep them topped up, and fresh.

Overlooking Timing Belt Replacement

Friends For Never factsShutterstock

Advertisement

Don't play Russian roulette with your timing belt. If it snaps, it can cause severe engine damage. Follow the manufacturer's recommended replacement schedule to keep your engine purring.

Failing to Replace Spark Plugs

Not like other girlsPexels

Advertisement

Worn out spark plugs can cause poor fuel efficiency, misfires, and rough idling. Replace them on schedule to keep your engine running well.

Neglecting Battery Maintenance

Car BatteryPexels

Advertisement

Dead batteries often strike at the most inconvenient times. Be sure to check your battery for corrosion, make sure it is secure, and replace it when it’s nearing the end of its lifespan.

DIY Gone Wrong

Man repairing car in garageKONSTANTIN_SHISHKIN, Shutterstock

Advertisement

Car repairs can be more complex than you may think. We all love a good DIY project, but some things are better left to the pros. Messing up a repair can end up costing more than hiring the mechanic in the first place.

Final Thoughts

Quit on the spotPexels

Advertisement

Car maintenance may seem like a chore, but its important in making sure your vehicle stays running smoothly.

These common mistakes can happen to any of us, but now that you know what to watch out for, you’re ready to be a car maintenance superstar.

So, go ahead and show your car some love, and enjoy the smooth rides ahead!


READ MORE

In 1976, Racing Legends Niki Lauda And James Hunt Fought An Epic Formula One Battle That Changed Racing Forever

In the decades-long history of Formula One, one season was so intense it ended up on a Hollywood script.
December 19, 2024 Miles Brucker

Cars The Public Absolutely Hated

Have you ever had a car that you weren't too crazy about? Sure you have. It was probably your first one. Let's go over some of the cars that the American public also absolutely hated. Did your car make the list?
December 19, 2024 Jack Hawkins
Supercar FB

Supercars That Defined The 21st Century

It’s the 21st century, and some people still say there’s no practicality in supercars. But this era has given us cars that defy this statement by sporting remarkable practical features along with their stylish appeal.
December 16, 2024 Miles Brucker

He didn't become Formula One's best designer by accident. Adrain Newey used his incredible intellect, talent, and vision to change the sport forever.

In the competitive world of Formula One, a man's vision has consistently translated into championship-winning cars. Here is a look at the outstanding career of Adrain Newey, one of the sport’s most successful designers.
December 12, 2024 Jane O'Shea

The Strangest Firsts In Car History

There have been a lot of strange “firsts” throughout car history—but the inspiration behind many of these innovations is far darker than people know.
December 19, 2024 Mark Schilling

The Most Famous Cars In The History Of Cinema

What makes a movie or series cooler is a car that steals the spotlight! Ride along with us as we cruise through cinema history's most iconic rides—each with a story as thrilling as the films they starred in.
December 19, 2024 Jane O'Shea