There are a lot of myths about auto repair that people believe. Here are five of the most common myths and why they’re not actually true:
1: The repair shop will give you an accurate estimate over the phone
This estimate you get over the phone is usually near the end price, but there are a few caveats. The first is that the price may change if additional work is required once the car is looked at. The second is that certain parts may not be included in the estimate, such as labor or taxes.
It’s always best to confirm with the shop and get a written estimate, as it’s impossible for the mechanic to know exactly what needs to be done before actually seeing the vehicle.
2: Spotting dark oil means you have to change your engine oil
This is a common misconception. Dark oil does not necessarily mean that it needs to be changed; it could mean that the oil is dirty from regular use. An easy way to tell if your engine oil needs to be changed is to check its viscosity with a dipstick. If the oil is still light and doesn’t smell burnt, it’s probably safe to wait until your following scheduled oil change.
3: Engine oil should be replaced every 3,000 miles
It’s not usually necessary to replace your engine oil every 3,000 miles. How often you should change your engine oil depends on various factors, including the type of oil you are using, the age and make of your vehicle, and how you drive it.
In general, most modern cars can go up to 7,500 or even 10,000 miles between oil changes if you’re using the correct type of oil and following the manufacturer’s recommendations for driving style. For older cars or those that see a lot of stop-and-go traffic, 5,000 miles may be a more reasonable replacement interval.
4: DIY is always better than letting a mechanic do the work
This is wrong in more than one way. First, it often takes longer to do the work yourself than to take it to a mechanic. Second, you may not have the right tools to do the work yourself. Third, you may not know how to avoid mistakes that could worsen the situation.
Trying to repair on your own can cost you more money if you make a mistake.
5: Regular warranty maintenance work has to be done at the dealership
Regular warranty maintenance work does not have to be done at the dealership. You can take your car to any qualified repair shop, and your warranty will cover it. Just make sure you keep the bills to prove the maintenance schedules are fulfilled.
In conclusion, don’t believe everything you hear about auto repair. There are a lot of myths out there, and some of them can cost you a lot of money if you’re not careful.