Owning a car is like being in a relationship—you need to invest time and care, or it’s bound to break down. Most people know the basics, but you could be making these four commonly overlooked car maintenance mistakes without realizing it.
1. Ignoring Strange Noises
If you hear a faint squeal when you brake, that’s not your car serenading you—it’s actually a cry for help. Ignoring odd noises like grinding, squeaking, or ticking can lead to major (and expensive) problems, so make sure to listen to your car.
It might be a worn brake pad, a loose belt, or something more serious that needs immediate attention. By addressing these sounds early, you can guarantee your car is safe to drive while avoiding costly repairs.
2. Skipping Filter Changes
Changing air filters isn’t exactly glamorous, but it’s important to remember that a clogged filter can lower your fuel efficiency and hurt your engine. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t run a marathon breathing through a straw, so why put your car through that?
Over time, neglecting filter changes can also lead to poor acceleration and reduced engine life. To keep your car running smoothly, make it a habit to check and replace your filters regularly.
3. Ignoring Windshield Cracks
If you’ve got a crack in your windshield, attend to it immediately because leaving it exposed could allow debris, water, and temperature fluctuations to make things worse. Even if you’re waiting on an appointment at the auto shop, protecting your windshield before a repair will ensure you don’t make the crack worse.
A small crack may look harmless now, but it could compromise your visibility and make driving unsafe, especially in poor weather conditions. By acting quickly, you’ll guarantee your safety on the road and save yourself from an expensive replacement.
4. Misjudging Fuel Levels
Running on fumes might feel like living on the edge, but it’s both risky and potentially damaging. Gasoline cools and lubricates your fuel pump, so running on fumes may result in serious (and very expensive) issues.
Now that you’re familiar with these four commonly overlooked car maintenance mistakes, you can avoid these slip-ups to keep your car happy and your wallet intact. A little attention now prevents a world of problems later, so treat your car right, and it’ll return the favor.
