Common car maintenance myths that cost drivers money
Car maintenance advice is everywhere — from forums and social media to well-meaning friends and family. Unfortunately, a lot of it is outdated, misunderstood, or simply wrong.
Believing the wrong advice doesn’t just create confusion — it often leads to unnecessary repairs, wasted money, and poor decisions.
Here are some of the most common car maintenance myths — and what actually matters instead.
Myth 1: “If It’s Not Broken, Don’t Touch It”
This sounds sensible, but it often leads to bigger problems later.
Some components are designed to be maintained before they fail, such as:
- Timing belts
- Brake components
- Fluids and filters
Ignoring preventative maintenance usually costs more than dealing with wear early.
Myth 2: “Main Dealer Servicing Is Always Better”
Dealer servicing isn’t inherently bad — but it isn’t always necessary.
What matters more than where a car is serviced is:
- Work being done on time
- Correct parts and fluids being used
- Evidence of consistent maintenance
A good independent garage can be just as effective — often at lower cost.
Myth 3: “Warning Lights Can Be Ignored If the Car Drives Fine”
This is one of the most expensive myths.
Many serious faults begin as minor warnings. Ignoring them can turn:
- Sensors into system failures
- Minor leaks into major repairs
- Simple fixes into breakdowns
If you’re unsure which lights actually matter, this maintenance guide explains it clearly:
➡️ What dashboard warning lights you should never ignore
Myth 4: “Short Trips Don’t Affect the Car”
Short journeys can be harder on cars than long ones.
Repeated short trips can cause:
- Battery drain
- DPF issues on diesels
- Increased engine wear
- Moisture build-up
Driving patterns matter just as much as mileage.
Myth 5: “Newer Cars Don’t Need Maintenance”
Modern cars are more reliable — but they’re also more complex.
Ignoring maintenance on newer cars can lead to:
- Expensive electronic faults
- Warranty issues
- Accelerated wear once problems start
Newer doesn’t mean maintenance-free.
Myth 6: “Passing the MOT Means the Car Is Healthy”
An MOT is a minimum safety check, not a health certificate.
A car can:
- Pass an MOT
- Still have advisories
- Still require upcoming maintenance
Understanding the difference between passing and being well-maintained saves money over time.
How Myths Lead to Poor Decisions
These myths often result in:
- Over-servicing in some areas
- Neglect in others
- Confusion around repair priorities
- Reactive spending instead of planning
Better information leads to calmer, cheaper decisions.
When Myths Start to Affect Bigger Choices
Maintenance myths often surface when drivers are deciding:
- Whether to keep a car longer
- Whether upcoming costs make sense
- How much more to invest
If you’re weighing those questions, understanding your car’s real position can help you decide without guesswork.
➡️ Get a clear picture of your car’s value and options:
The Key Takeaway
Good maintenance isn’t about doing everything — it’s about doing the right things at the right time.
Letting go of common myths helps you spend less, worry less, and make better long-term decisions.
