Car maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently, but it’s also an area rife with misconceptions. At Kingdom Autocare, we often hear clients repeat common myths that can lead to costly mistakes or overlooked issues. To help you keep your car in top shape, we’re busting the top 5 most common car maintenance myths — with the facts you really need to know.
The Truth:
While the “3,000-mile oil change” rule was once a good guideline, modern vehicles and synthetic oils have made this outdated. Many manufacturers now recommend oil change intervals between 5,000 and 10,000 miles, depending on your car’s make, model, and driving conditions.
Why It Matters:
Changing oil too frequently can be unnecessary and wasteful, but waiting too long can cause engine wear. Always check your owner’s manual or ask your trusted mechanic about the best oil change schedule for your vehicle.
Pro Tip:
Synthetic oils often last longer and perform better in extreme temperatures, helping extend oil change intervals safely.
The Truth:
Premium fuel is designed for high-compression engines and vehicles with specific performance requirements. If your car’s manufacturer recommends regular unleaded gasoline, using premium won’t improve your car’s performance or fuel efficiency.
Why It Matters:
Buying premium when your car doesn’t need it wastes money without any benefit. However, if your engine requires premium, using regular gas can lead to knocking and engine damage.
Pro Tip:
Check your owner’s manual to see which fuel grade is recommended and stick to it for the best balance of performance and cost.
The Truth:
Waiting until brake pads are completely worn can damage your rotors and increase repair costs significantly. Most brake pads have built-in wear indicators that produce a squealing noise when replacement is needed.
Why It Matters:
Driving on worn brake pads reduces stopping power and increases the risk of accidents. Early replacement helps maintain braking performance and avoids costly rotor or caliper damage.
Pro Tip:
Have your brakes inspected regularly — especially if you notice any squeaking, grinding, or reduced responsiveness.
The Truth:
Tire rotation is crucial for even tire wear and maximizing the lifespan of your tires. Since front and rear tires wear differently due to steering and weight distribution, rotating them regularly helps prevent uneven wear.
Why It Matters:
Skipping tire rotation can lead to premature tire replacement and negatively affect vehicle handling and fuel efficiency.
Pro Tip:
Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, or follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
The Truth:
Many car problems develop gradually and silently, without obvious symptoms until they become severe. Skipping routine maintenance like fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections can cause minor issues to escalate into expensive repairs.
Why It Matters:
Regular maintenance ensures your car runs efficiently, safely, and reliably. It can also catch potential problems early before they compromise your vehicle or safety.
Pro Tip:
Follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule closely and consult trusted mechanics at Kingdom Autocare for thorough inspections.
The Truth:
While maintenance does have costs, neglecting it almost always leads to higher repair bills in the long run. Preventative care saves money by avoiding breakdowns and extending the life of your car’s components.
Why It Matters:
Investing in regular maintenance is a smart way to protect your vehicle and your budget.
Don’t let these common myths fool you — smart car maintenance is key to your safety, performance, and peace of mind. At Kingdom Autocare, we’re here to help you keep your vehicle in prime condition with expert advice and trusted service.
📞 Have questions or need a maintenance checkup? Contact Kingdom Autocare today to schedule your appointment with our expert technicians!
