There are plenty of myths surrounding cars that have been passed down for decades. While some may have been true years ago, advances in vehicle technology mean many are now outdated or simply incorrect.
Here are some of the biggest automotive myths—and the facts behind them.
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Myth: The Ford Model T was the first mass-produced car
The Ford Model T is often credited as the world’s first mass-produced car, but that’s not entirely true.
That distinction belongs to the Oldsmobile Curved Dash, which entered production in 1901 using assembly-line manufacturing techniques. The Ford Model T, introduced in 1908, revolutionised production by making assembly lines even more efficient and bringing affordable motoring to millions.
While it wasn’t the first mass-produced car, it remains one of the most influential vehicles ever built.
Myth: Electric cars catch fire more often than petrol cars
High-profile news stories can make electric vehicle fires seem common, but the statistics tell a different story.
Research consistently shows that battery electric vehicles (EVs) are less likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel vehicles. Modern EVs undergo extensive safety testing and include sophisticated battery management systems designed to minimise fire risk.
Like any vehicle, fires can occur following severe damage or manufacturing faults, but electric cars are generally considered very safe.
Myth: Premium fuel keeps your engine cleaner
Many drivers believe paying extra for premium petrol automatically keeps an engine cleaner.
In reality, octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to engine knock, not its cleaning ability.
Unless your vehicle manufacturer specifically recommends higher-octane fuel, using premium petrol is unlikely to improve performance or engine cleanliness enough to justify the extra cost.
The best approach is simply to use the fuel grade recommended in your owner’s manual.
If you’re keen to in wanting to look after your car, we’ve looked at 5 Ways to Keep Your Car Smelling Fresh All Year Long.
Myth: SUVs are always safer than saloons
SUVs are popular because they offer a higher driving position and a commanding view of the road.
However, bigger doesn’t always mean safer.
Modern saloons and hatchbacks often perform just as well in independent crash testing. Their lower centre of gravity can also make them less prone to rolling over during emergency manoeuvres.
Vehicle safety depends on many factors, including:
- Crash test ratings.
- Driver assistance technology.
- Structural design.
- Driver behaviour.
No vehicle type guarantees greater safety on its own.
Myth: You should change your oil every 3,000 miles
The old advice to change engine oil every 3,000 miles no longer applies to most modern vehicles.
Advances in engine design and synthetic oils mean many manufacturers now recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, or even longer in some cases.
The correct interval depends on:
- Your vehicle.
- The type of oil used.
- Your driving habits.
- Manufacturer recommendations.
Always check your service schedule rather than relying on outdated rules.
Myth: Hybrid cars always save money
Hybrid vehicles can reduce fuel consumption, but they don’t automatically save every driver money.
Whether a hybrid is cost-effective depends on how you use your car.
A hybrid may be ideal if you:
- Spend lots of time driving in towns.
- Frequently encounter stop-start traffic.
- Cover moderate annual mileage.
However, drivers who mainly travel on motorways may see fewer fuel-saving benefits compared with an efficient petrol or diesel vehicle.
It’s also worth considering purchase price, servicing costs and long-term ownership before deciding whether a hybrid is the right choice.
Final thoughts
The automotive world is full of myths that continue to circulate long after technology has moved on.
Whether it’s how often you should change your oil or whether premium fuel is really worth the extra money, checking the facts can help you make better decisions and potentially save money along the way.
When in doubt, always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s guidance rather than relying on outdated advice.
If you want to do everything you can to look after you’re car and be as prepared as you can, here’s What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down in the Middle of Nowhere.
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