Top 7 Myths About Car Servicing You Should Stop Believing

When it comes to car maintenance, there’s no shortage of advice—some useful, some completely misleading. Many car owners still believe in old myths that can actually harm their vehicles in the long run. To help you make smarter maintenance decisions, we’ve listed the top 7 car service myths you should stop believing right now. Let’s clear up the confusion with some real car maintenance facts and auto service advice that every driver should know.

One of the most common car service myths is that getting your car serviced anywhere other than the authorized dealership will void your warranty. That’s not true!

As long as the mechanic follows the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule and uses genuine parts, your warranty remains valid. Independent garages or trusted platforms like CarVaidya offer professional service at a much lower cost without affecting your car warranty.

So, next time someone tells you to stick only to the dealer, remember — what matters most is the quality of service, not the place.

Here’s another car oil change myth that needs to die. Modern engines and advanced synthetic oils are designed to last much longer than before. Most new cars can easily go 10,000 to 15,000 km between oil changes, depending on your driving conditions. Overchanging oil not only wastes money but also harms the environment. Instead, always check your owner’s manual or consult with CarVaidya experts for the ideal oil change interval for your specific model. Regular oil checks are important, but changing it too soon isn’t doing your car any favors.

Waiting for a breakdown before visiting a mechanic is one of the biggest car maintenance mistakes. Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your car healthy. Ignoring regular checkups can lead to small problems turning into costly repairs later. For example, a minor brake pad issue, if ignored, can damage the rotors and increase your repair bill significantly. Following your car care guide and getting your car checked at regular intervals ensures better performance and safety.

Many drivers believe that premium or high-octane fuel is always better for their vehicle. But this is mostly an engine service myth. Unless your car manufacturer specifically recommends premium fuel, there’s no real benefit in using it.

In fact, using premium fuel in a regular engine doesn’t improve mileage or performance—it just increases your expense. Stick to the fuel grade mentioned in your car’s manual. It’s designed for your engine’s needs.

You might think cleaning your car’s engine often helps it run better, but that’s another misleading car maintenance fact. Washing the engine too often, especially with high-pressure water, can damage sensors, electrical components, and wiring. If your engine looks dirty, go for a professional cleaning once in a while—but avoid doing it too often. Instead, focus on keeping the exterior and interiors clean regularly. For the engine, trust CarVaidya tips that recommend proper inspection before any deep wash.

A dead battery is the last thing you want when you’re in a hurry. One common car repair knowledge mistake is waiting for the battery to completely die before replacing it. Car batteries usually last around 3–5 years, but climate, driving habits, and electrical usage can affect lifespan. If your headlights are dimming or the engine takes longer to start, that’s your car warning you. Regular battery checks can save you from unexpected breakdowns. Replacing a weak battery before it fails is smarter and cheaper than getting stranded and calling for emergency service.

Many people assume that if the car is running fine, there’s no need to change fluids. That’s a dangerous car maintenance mistake. Fluids like brake oil, transmission fluid, and coolant degrade over time and lose their efficiency. If not changed on schedule, they can lead to serious mechanical problems. These fluids are like the blood of your car – they keep everything running smoothly. Your car care guide will mention when to replace each fluid, so don’t ignore it. Regular fluid maintenance is one of the simplest ways to extend your vehicle’s life.

Your car is a machine that needs care and attention, not guesswork. Believing in outdated car service myths can lead to unnecessary expenses, performance issues, or even safety risks.

Here’s the truth — follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, schedule periodic maintenance, and rely on trusted professionals for genuine service.

Platforms like CarVaidya make car maintenance simple, transparent, and affordable. Whether it’s your routine servicing, oil change, or engine inspection, CarVaidya ensures you get expert help without overpaying or worrying about fake advice.