Owning a car is a big responsibility. Every car needs routine auto repair, including checks for your brakes and the occasional oil change. Unfortunately, delaying maintenance is one of the biggest mistakes car owners make.
In this blog, we will discuss common car ownership mistakes, and break down how you can keep your car running strong for years to come.
The 10 Biggest Mistakes Car Owners Make
Whether you drive a new vehicle or a late-model car, avoid these 10 costly mistakes:
1. Starting Your Car And Driving Off Immediately
Your car’s engine is a collection of moving parts. Those parts rely on fluids and lubricants to move freely. When your car has been sitting, those fluids cool down and congeal.
For them to flow through the engine again, the car’s motor needs to run. This is why it’s so important to allow your car to warm up after you start it.
Even 30 to 60 seconds of uninterrupted run time is enough to distribute critical fluids through your engine and decrease wear and tear.
2. Using the Wrong Fuel
Did you know that many drivers are using the wrong fuel in their car?
A quick glance at your owner’s manual will reveal manufacturer recommendations regarding what type of gas to put in your car.
If your owner’s manual recommends premium fuel, you should only be using premium fuel. The same goes for any car that’s designed to run on regular.
3. Changing the Oil Too Infrequently
Think of your car’s oil system as its heartbeat. If your oil gets dirty or depleted, it’s impossible for your engine to run well.
You should be changing your oil every 3,000-5,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Changing your oil too often or too infrequently can damage your car’s engine.
4. Failing To Check Tire Pressure
For optimal handling and control, your car’s tires need to be properly inflated. You don’t want to over-inflate them and you certainly don’t want to under-inflate them.
With this in mind, get in the habit of carrying a tire pressure gauge with you. Check the tire pressure when you fuel up with gas, and add air as needed.
5. Driving On Bald Tires
Driving on bald tires is dangerous and irresponsible. Cars with bald tires don’t handle well and aren’t safe during wet or inclement weather conditions. With this in mind, make sure to check your tread depth each year.
One easy way to do this is by taking a quarter, turning it upside down, and inserting it between the grooves of your tires.
If you can see Lincoln’s head, your tires are bald. Find a local auto repair shop to help you shop for new tires. While you’re at it, consider having your brakes checked!
6. Ignoring Check Engine Lights
The lights on your dashboard are there for a reason. When they pop on, they are trying to tell you something. Ignoring check engine lights that come on is a recipe for disaster.
Instead, take the car to a local auto repair shop anytime you notice a new Dashboard Light. While the issue could be something as simple as a code, it could also be something as serious as a faulty catalytic converter.
7. Not Keeping Up With Routine Maintenance
Simple preventive maintenance like oil changes and filter replacements stop problems before they start. If you neglect these routine tasks, you’re putting your engine at risk for damage. The result could be costly repairs and replacements or, worse, an unsafe car.
8. Ignoring Strange Noises
Your car has many ways to tell you things. One is dashboard lights and another is new noises as you drive.
If you hear banging, popping, whistling, grinding, or any other sound that is not normal to your car, it’s critical to get it checked out. Ignoring these noises could lead to Major repairs or serious vehicle damage.
9. Not Replacing Air And Fuel Filters
To keep your car running well, you should check your vehicle’s filters at least every six months.
In addition to keeping your cabin air clean and helping your car run more efficiently, air and fuel filters decrease your engine’s workload, thereby reducing wear and tear and improving your car’s lifespan. Replacing these filters regularly is a simple way to keep your car running well.
10. Ignoring Safety Recalls
Safety recalls are a big deal for car owners. If you become aware of a safety recall that affects your vehicle, contact the dealership to schedule any needed repairs immediately. The repairs will be free and could save you time, money, and injury down the road.
Avoid Auto Repair Mistakes: Trust DeBroux Automotive for Pensacola Auto Repairs
When it comes to taking care of your car, preventative maintenance is key. Avoid making the biggest mistakes car owners make and be sure to follow all the above tips! Here at DeBroux Automotive, we specialize in providing a variety of auto repair services for Pensacola customers. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you keep your car safe, efficient, and comfortable.