Properly maintaining your car is just as important as driving defensively. Regular car maintenance reduces your risk of a severe car accident, keeping yourself and others safe. Since it can be difficult to determine which car maintenance tips to follow and which ones to ignore, we have debunked the most common car maintenance myths.
Myth 1: Look at Your Vehicle’s Sidewalls to Determine the Correct Tire Inflation Pressure
Many drivers make the mistake of looking at their vehicle’s sidewalls to determine the ideal tire inflation pressure. The truth is that their vehicle’s manufacturer may have another suggestion that is better suited for their car and that improves both fuel consumption and safety. Be sure to check your tire pressure on a monthly basis or whenever extreme temperature fluctuations occur.
Myth 2: Using Premium Fuel is Worth It
The majority of vehicles on the market are engineered to run optimally on regular 87 octane fuel. It is a good idea to check your vehicle’s owner manual to figure out what type of fuel you should use. The Federal Trade Commision says that, unless the manufacturer indicates that higher octane is necessary for your car, there is no benefit to paying the higher prices. While you can use premium fuel without harm, know that your vehicle will not operate more efficiently. However, if your car engine is "knocking," the higher octane grade may help those problems.
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