Common Car Maintenance Myths

It pays to find out from the auto professionals concerning car maintenance facts. Second and third-hand knowledge can be expensive and possibly even dangerous if taken too seriously. Here are a few common vehicle maintenance myths that keep circling around DIY-selfers:

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    * Myth: A visual tire inspection alone can determine if a tire is properly inflated.

      A tire can be as much as 10 pounds per square inch low on air pressure and not show any outward signs. Tires will lose about one pound of pressure per month all by themselves. Not only will the correct tire pressure help tires last longer, it can also save money in fuel costs. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, causing an increase in fuel consumption.

    * Myth: If an air filter appears clean it's good at least until the next oil change.

      An air filter traps dirt and junk so small that it cannot be seen. Even if it looks OK, it can be clogged with crud. Once the small passages in the filter get clogged, the engine can have trouble breathing. Replacing an air filter is easy and inexpensive. Follow the vehicle maintenance schedule found in your owner's manual. Remember: air filters get clogged quicker than normal in cities and dusty areas.

    * Myth: Brake fluid typically lasts for the life of the vehicle.

      Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means it has the ability to absorb water from the air. Over time this moisture can cause damage to the brake system, and dangerously lower the brake fluid boiling point. Brake fluid should be clear and transparent. Cloudy brake fluid means it's time for a change.

    * Myth: If engine coolant is bright green, it's still doing its job.

      Over time the chemicals in engine coolant can become corrosive. Coolant that looks OK can in fact be causing unseen and expensive cooling system damage. Checking engine coolant condition with an inexpensive tool is easy, and can prevent both overheated engines and empty wallets.

    * Myth: Putting premium gas in the tank will guarantee premium performance.

      Unless a vehicle's engine was designed and built to use extra octane in premium fuel, there is no reason to pay the extra money for it. The numbers of high performance cars and trucks that actually require premium fuel are fewer nowadays. Use regular fuel unless the owner's manual calls for premium.

When in doubt about your vehicle's performance or components, consult with a reliable mechanic for advice on vehicle maintenance, before possibly causing damage to your vehicle or spending money for unnecessary repairs.

Have questions about vehicle maintenance? We will be glad to answer them for you. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Price's Precision auto repair shop today by calling (406) 248-2838, or go on-line to www.pricesprecisionauto.com for advice on good car maintenance. Our Tech-Net professional auto repair shop in Billings,MT, also services vehicle owners in the areas of Shepherd and Laurel, MT.