Car maintenance myths lurk everywhere, convincing drivers to waste time, money, and energy. Mechanics hear these misconceptions daily and are ready to set the record straight. Here’s the inside scoop on ten common myths they’d love to bust, saving you cash, hassle, and maybe even your car’s lifespan.

Premium Gas Is Always Better for Every Car

Believe it or not, only about 18% of vehicles on U.S. roads actually need premium fuel. Premium gas doesn’t magically boost performance unless you drive a high-performance engine. Regular cars perform just fine on regular gas.

Oil Changes Every 3,000 Miles Keep Engines Happy

Old-school wisdom said to change the oil every 3,000 miles. Not anymore! Modern engines and synthetic oils now last 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Check your car’s manual for specifics. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, not outdated advice from Grandpa’s mechanic.

Tire Rotation Is Optional if You Drive Carefully

Tires wear unevenly, no matter how cautiously you drive. Rotating tires after 6,000 to 8,000 miles helps balance this wear, extending tire life and saving money. Skipping rotations? You’re basically inviting premature tire baldness and unsafe handling. Rotate to prolong!

Warm Up Your Engine Before You Drive on Cold Mornings

Modern engines warm up more efficiently while driving, not idling. Idling wastes fuel and slows down the warm-up process. On cold mornings, start your car, wait 30 seconds, and then drive gently. Your engine will appreciate it, and so will the planet due to lower emissions.

Brake Fluid Never Needs Changing Unless There’s a Leak

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, making it essential to replace it every two to three years. When you ignore this, it could cause your brakes to suffer corrosion, lower boiling points, and reduced efficiency. Don’t wait for a leak to act—schedule that fluid change.

Replacing Air Filters Is a Waste of Money

Air filters are like lungs for your engine. A clogged filter reduces airflow and slashes fuel efficiency by up to 10%. Replacing it annually or as needed keeps your engine breathing easy and running smoothly. Think of it as cheap insurance for engine health!

Always Change Your Brake Pads as Soon as They Squeak

Not every squeak means your pads are done. Some brakes squeal when they’re cold or damp but still have life left. Mechanics use indicators like thickness and wear, not just sound, to assess brake health. Save money by confirming before changing prematurely.

Synthetic Oil Ruins Older Engines

Despite the myths, synthetic oil doesn’t “ruin” older engines; it’s actually cleaner and lasts longer. Mechanics recommend synthetic oil for its stability in extreme temperatures, even for older cars. If your engine doesn’t leak, then synthetic is a solid choice for better protection.

Engine Flushes Are Always Necessary for Older Cars

Engine flushes can actually loosen sludge, blocking vital oil passages if not needed. It is recommended to flush only if sludge buildup is severe. Most engines don’t require them, and simple regular oil changes will keep things clean. 

Changing Transmission Fluid Causes Transmission Problems

Skipping fluid changes causes issues! Transmission fluid keeps gears running smoothly by reducing friction. Neglecting it leads to costly wear. Mechanics suggest changing fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatics so you can shift with peace of mind.