Car maintenance might not be everyone’s favorite hobby, but some habits can seriously irk the professionals—and for good reason. Here are 10 things you might be doing that have your mechanic shaking their head in disbelief.
Using Water Instead of Washer Fluid
It’s tempting to save a few dollars by using tap water in your windshield washer reservoir, but this shortcut can end up costing you more in the long run. Washer fluid is specifically designed to clean effectively and not freeze in cold temperatures. Using water can lead to clogged reservoirs and hoses, and in colder climates, the water can freeze, cracking the reservoir. Stick to the proper fluid and spare yourself the headache.
Skipping Oil Changes for Short Drives
You might think that if you only drive short distances, you can skip regular oil changes. However, oil deteriorates over time, not just with mileage. Short trips can be particularly hard on oil, as the engine doesn’t fully warm up, causing the oil to break down faster. Regular oil changes are really important for the longevity of your engine.
Investing in a Beater Hoping It Becomes a Classic
The dream of turning a beater into a valuable classic is, for most, just that—a dream. An old family sedan is unlikely to become a sought-after classic. Spending thousands on repairs for a car that’s on its last legs, in hopes it will become a collector’s item, is often just throwing good money after bad. Recognize when it’s time to let go and invest in a vehicle that’s more reliable.
Ignoring Strange Noises and Sensations
Ignoring unusual noises or feelings from your car is a recipe for disaster. Sounds like squealing, rattling, or crunching are your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. For instance, a squealing sound when braking could mean it’s time to replace your brake pads. Address these issues early to avoid more costly repairs down the line.
Repairing Damaged Tires Instead of Replacing
Tires are crucial to your safety on the road, and attempting to repair a badly damaged tire, especially one with sidewall damage, is a risk not worth taking. Most reputable tire shops won’t repair such damage due to the safety risk. When in doubt, replace the tire.
Using Hot Water to Defrost Windshield
Using boiling water to defrost your windshield on a cold morning might seem like a quick fix, but it can cause the glass to crack due to thermal shock. Instead, use your car’s defroster and a proper ice scraper to gently remove ice without damaging your windshield.
Setting Tire Pressure Based on Tire Imprint
The pressure rating on the side of your tire is the maximum pressure, not the recommended level for optimal driving. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically found on a sticker inside your driver-side door. Proper tire pressure improves safety, fuel economy, and tire longevity.
Ignoring an Overheating Engine
If your engine is overheating, the last thing you should do is turn up the AC. This misguided advice can lead to significant engine damage. Instead, if your engine temperature spikes, turn on the heater to move heat away from the engine, and pull over safely to avoid further damage.
Waiting for Rain to Wash Your Car
Neglecting regular car washes can lead to a build-up of dirt, pollen, and bird droppings, which can damage your car’s paint and reduce its value. Regular washing maintains the car’s appearance and protects its exterior from long-term damage.
Ignoring Dashboard Warning Lights
Covering up dashboard warning lights with tape or simply ignoring them won’t make the underlying issues go away. These lights are designed to alert you to possible problems with your vehicle. Ignoring them can lead to more expensive repairs in the future. Always address warning lights promptly to keep your car running smoothly.
Josh Clark
