3 Car Maintenance Myths
Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a seasonal road-trip, it’s important to routinely service your ride. Here are three car-care myths to steer clear of when maintaining your vehicle.
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Using the AC is much better for efficiency than rolling down the windows.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always more efficient to roll the windows down than to use air conditioning. Per the Society of Automotive Engineers, using AC expends just slightly more fuel than relying on the open-window method, if you follow a few guidelines. The group recommends letting the hot air out of your parked vehicle before turning on the AC and avoid using the maximum setting. (Bonus fact: Using AC is often a safer option than driving with the windows down since cool air can reduce driver fatigue.)
Premium gas is better.
Unless your vehicle is a performance model, it most likely doesn’t require the higher octane levels that premium fuel has. For instance, if you have a Chevy Corvette or Camaro, using premium gas might be a manufacturer requirement. If the OEM simply recommends premium gas for your particular model, then feel free to use regular gas when refilling the tank. Per Edmunds, the only change you might notice in your vehicle’s performance is that the acceleration rate increases by half a second.
Opting for a “clearcoat protectant” at an automatic car wash provides the same level of protection as waxing it.
Many modern car washes offer the option of adding on a “clearcoat protectant” spray. This product takes only 30 seconds to apply and is supposed to protect your vehicle’s glass, rubber, and vinyl surfaces from dents and debris. However, conventional car wax lasts longer and provides better coverage. Per Kiplinger, products from brands like Mothers California Gold Synthetic Wax and NuPolish take less than 30 minutes to apply and can protect your vehicle for up to 12 months.
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News Sources: Kiplinger, Society of Automotive Engineers, Edmunds
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