10 Everyday Car Mistakes That Will Cost You Thousands In The Longrun & 10 Ways To Fix It
10 Everyday Car Mistakes That Will Cost You Thousands In The Longrun & 10 Ways To Fix It
Want Your Car to Last Forever?
Your car is one of the most expensive things you buy in life, but too many drivers make surprisingly silly mistakes that add up to thousands of dollars over time. From neglecting basic maintenance to missing early warning signs, these car care blunders are easy to make but costly to correct. With that in mind, here are 20 things to keep in mind.
1. Driving the Engine Cold
It's still common to see drivers warming their cars in cold weather. But today's engines don't need this. Fuel-injected engines adjust to the cold automatically, warming as they drive. Idling wastes fuel and can even cause mild engine damage. The best way to warm up your car now is to start and drive gently.
2. Dealership Repairs
Repair costs can run higher at a dealership than at an independent auto shop, even for the same job. A good independent mechanic can save you hundreds a year and still honor manufacturer warranties. Independent mechanics can also be more honest about what work is truly needed. Pick a reputable shop you trust to keep maintenance costs low.
3. Tire Upkeep
Driving on bald or underinflated tires decreases your gas mileage and increases wear and tear. Bald or flat tires are more prone to blowouts that can cause serious accidents and expensive repairs. Rotating, balancing, and replacing your tires as needed will prolong tire life and save you money. Tire maintenance is a simple preventative measure that keeps you safe.
4. Ignoring Symptoms
Cars will let you know when they need repair. There may be weird sounds, a hiccup in performance, or a general feeling that something is wrong. If you don’t address it soon, a small problem can turn into a larger one, leading to more expensive repairs. Bringing your car in at the first sign of trouble can save thousands in the long run. Learning to trust your instincts is one of the first steps of being a proactive car owner.
5. Potholes
Accelerating over potholes or large speed bumps can damage your tires, wheels, suspension, and even your car's body. Potholes alone are responsible for billions of dollars in vehicle damage every year. Slowing down and carefully navigating these obstacles can save you from expensive repairs and extend your car’s life. Being aware of road conditions helps avoid preventable damage.
6. Oil Changes
Oil changes are one of the easiest and cheapest ways to maintain your vehicle. Neglecting them can cause engine sludge, overheating, and ultimately, complete engine failure. Rebuilding or replacing an engine is one of the most costly repairs a car owner can face. Keeping up with oil changes lets your car run at its best and avoids huge costs down the line.
7. Running on Empty
Running out of gas can ruin the fuel pump, which needs gasoline to stay cool and lubricated. Replacing a fuel pump can cost $750 to over $1,000. You can avoid this cost by refilling before empty. It’s best to keep your tank at least a quarter full to prevent unnecessary repairs.
8. Hot Water
Pouring hot water on a frozen windshield may sound like a quick hack, but it can crack the glass due to the drastic temperature change. Windshield replacements can cost hundreds of dollars. Instead, use a scraper or the defrost setting to safely de-ice your windshield.
9. Neglecting Mechanics
Failing to inform your mechanic about new sounds, smells, or vibrations can result in a delayed and more expensive diagnosis. Mechanics rely on your observations to catch issues before they worsen. Providing detailed information allows for earlier repairs and prevents unnecessary work and costs.
10. Reverse While Rolling Forward
Shifting into reverse while the car is still moving can seriously damage the transmission, especially in older or manual cars. Even slow attempts can result in costly repairs if your car doesn’t have a reverse-inhibit feature. Always come to a full stop before changing gears.
Now that we talked about 10 ways you’re ruining your car, here's how to stay on top of the upkeep to make it last forever and save on repairs
1. Be Proactive
Neglecting minor issues can lead to severe mechanical problems. Tackling repairs early saves money and prevents breakdowns. Regularly attending to warning signs keeps your car safe and reliable. Proactive maintenance goes a long way in saving time and money.
2. Keep It Fluid
Oil isn’t the only fluid your car needs. Brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid are all essential. Checking fluids manually is a great preventative step, even in newer cars with indicator lights. Running low can cause major damage and shorten your car’s lifespan.
3. Tire Maintenance
Optimal tire pressure ensures safety, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Low pressure makes your engine work harder and increases blowout risk. Checking and adjusting pressure regularly avoids costly tire replacements. Proper inflation is an easy but essential step in maintenance.
4. Owner’s Manual
The owner’s manual is your guide to correct maintenance. It tells you when to change oil, rotate tires, replace belts, and more. Following the schedule prevents breakdowns and keeps your car running smoothly. Ignoring it is like driving blind, you’ll pay for easily preventable repairs.
5. Filters
Air, oil, and fuel filters catch dirt and grime that can damage your engine. Clean filters improve fuel economy, reduce emissions, and extend engine life. They’re low-cost but do a big job in protecting your vehicle.
6. Keep Up with Oil
Oil lubricates, cools, and protects your engine. It’s the lifeblood of your vehicle. Regular oil changes are simple yet essential. Ignoring them can lead to serious engine damage and costly repairs.
7. A Smooth Ride
Gentle driving reduces wear on brakes, suspension, and tires. Slowing for potholes and avoiding aggressive starts preserves fuel and prolongs vehicle life. Thoughtful driving habits prevent expensive repairs.
8. Wary of Elements
Snow, rain, and debris can damage paint and reduce resale value. Parking in a garage or under a cover protects your car. Exterior care prevents costly cosmetic and structural damage.
9. Extra Quality
Cheap parts and products may seem like a bargain but can cause long-term harm. Investing in quality oil, fluids, and cleaning products protects your engine and vehicle. High-quality parts ensure reliable performance.
10. Keep It Clean
Interior dirt and clutter cause odors and reduce resale value. Exterior grime, especially in winter, can damage paint and accelerate rust. Frequent cleaning maintains appearance and long-term value.
