Let’s face it, car maintenance can feel a bit confusing, with all the different advice floating around. In Australia, we love our road trips and utes, but there are still some big myths many drivers believe. It’s time to clear things up!
1. You need to service your car every 6 months no matter what.
This is not always true. If you’re not clocking up many kms, check your owner’s manual. Some cars only need a service once a year.
2. Premium fuel is better for all cars.
Unless your car needs it (check your fuel cap), regular unleaded is just fine and cheaper.
3. Electric cars don’t need servicing.
They still do! No oil changes, sure, but they’ve got brakes, tyres, and batteries that need attention.
4. You must go to the dealership to keep your warranty.
Nope! As long as a qualified mechanic follows the logbook, your warranty stays valid.
5. Idling your car warms it up better.
Not really. Modern engines warm up faster when you’re driving. Just go easy for the first few minutes.
6. You need to change oil every 5,000 kms.
Some older cars, yes. However, many newer models go 10,000 km or more between oil changes.
7. Tyre pressure doesn’t matter much.
Wrong! Under-inflated tyres wear out faster, burn more fuel, and are just plain unsafe.
8. All mechanics are the same.
Like any trade, some are great, some not so much. Ask around, read reviews, and find one you trust.
9. If it’s not making noise, it’s fine.
Plenty of car issues start silently. Regular checks can catch problems early before they get expensive.
10. DIY is always cheaper.
Sometimes, sure. But if you don’t know what you’re doing, it could cost more in the long run or be unsafe.
Keep these things in mind when caring for your used car.
Apart from regular maintenance, buying a good car in the first place can significantly improve the longevity of your vehicle. A pre-purchase inspection helps you do just that, spotting hidden issues before they become ‘your’ problem to take care of. So, the next time you’re buying a second-hand vehicle, be sure to book a pre-purchase inspection and take the guesswork out of the process.