Car Servicing: Debunking 15 Popular Myths

Car servicing is an essential aspect of maintaining your car’s performance and longevity. However, there are many misconceptions about car servicing that can lead to costly mistakes.

In this article, we will debunk all the 15 car servicing myths in Singapore and provide you with accurate information that can help you save money and keep your car running smoothly.

Myth #1: Regular car servicing isn’t necessary

Some car owners believe that their car only needs servicing when something goes wrong. However, regular car servicing is essential to keep your car in good condition and avoid costly repairs in the long run.

Skipping regular car servicing can lead to a range of problems, such as reduced fuel efficiency, engine problems, and safety issues.

To avoid these issues, car owners should adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended servicing schedule.

Myth #2: Servicing your car at an authorised dealer is more expensive than at a local workshop

Many car owners believe that servicing their car at an authorised dealer is more expensive than at a local workshop. However, this is not always the case.

In Singapore, authorised dealers often offer competitive pricing and use genuine parts, ensuring that your car is serviced to the highest standards.

While local workshops may offer cheaper rates, they may use non-original parts and have less experienced mechanics. So it’s important to find a trusted and knowledgeable local car service workshop.

Myth #3: You don’t need to service a new car

Some car owners believe that their new car doesn’t require servicing until it’s a few years old. However, this is not true.

New cars require an initial servicing to ensure that all components are working correctly and to identify any potential problems early on.

Skipping this initial servicing can lead to issues down the road, such as reduced performance and higher repair costs.

Myth #4: Skipping car servicing can save you money

Some car owners skip necessary car services to save money. However, this can lead to significant costs in the long run.

Skipping essential services, such as oil changes and brake inspections, can lead to more significant problems that require expensive repairs and saving you money in the long run.

Myth #5: You can delay car servicing if you’re short on cash

It’s a common misconception that delaying car servicing can save you money in the short term, especially if you’re facing financial difficulties. However, neglecting regular car maintenance can actually end up costing you more in the long run.

Ignoring routine car servicing can lead to larger and more expensive issues down the road, such as engine failure or transmission problems. In addition, worn out or faulty parts that go unnoticed during servicing can result in poor fuel economy and increased fuel consumption.

Rather than putting off car servicing, it’s important to find ways to make it more affordable. You can do this by shopping around for a reputable and affordable car service workshop, or by looking for promotions and discounts on servicing packages. Many car workshops also offer installment plans or flexible payment options to help spread out the cost of servicing over time.

Ultimately, regular car servicing is an investment in your car’s long-term health and performance, and it’s an important step in keeping your car safe and reliable on the road. So, if you’re short on cash, consider finding ways to make car servicing more affordable rather than delaying it altogether.

Myth #6: Servicing your car is just a way for mechanics to make money

Some car owners may believe that car servicing is just a ploy for mechanics to make money. However, this is a misconception as car servicing is a vital aspect of maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle. Regular car servicing can help detect and prevent potential issues before they become major problems, which can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Modern cars are complex machines with various systems and components that require regular attention to ensure they are functioning optimally. Car servicing involves a thorough inspection and maintenance of these systems and components, including the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and more. Neglecting car servicing can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, poor performance, and even breakdowns on the road.

It’s important to note that not all car servicing is the same. Some workshops may recommend unnecessary services or overcharge for services, but that does not mean all car servicing is a scam. It’s crucial to do your research and find a reputable workshop that provides transparent and honest service.

Myth #7: You don’t need to service your car if it’s still under warranty

Many car owners believe that they can skip regular servicing of their car if it’s still covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. This is a common misconception that could lead to serious problems down the line.

It’s important to understand that a warranty is not a maintenance plan. While it does cover the cost of repairs and replacements for certain parts and systems during the warranty period, it doesn’t exempt you from regular maintenance. Neglecting regular servicing could actually void your warranty if the issue is found to be a result of poor maintenance.

Regular servicing is important for keeping your car running smoothly and preventing major issues from developing. It’s also a good way to catch minor problems before they become major, potentially saving you from costly repairs. In fact, many manufacturers require that you follow their recommended maintenance schedule to keep your warranty valid.

Even if your car is running well and there are no visible issues, regular servicing can help keep it that way. This includes changing fluids, checking and replacing filters, inspecting belts and hoses, and other routine maintenance tasks that are essential for keeping your car in top condition.

So, while it’s true that your warranty will cover certain repairs, neglecting regular servicing could actually end up costing you more in the long run. Keep your car running smoothly and protect your investment by following the recommended maintenance schedule.

Sell your car with confidence by ensuring that it’s been regularly serviced. Get a free car valuation and sell your car hassle-free.

Myth #8: You need to warm up your car up before you drive it

Many drivers believe that they should let their car idle and warm up for a few minutes before driving, especially in cold weather. However, this is a myth that can actually harm your engine and waste fuel.

Modern cars do not require a warm-up period before driving because they are equipped with sophisticated engine management systems that can warm up the engine much faster while driving.

Idling your car for an extended period can cause fuel to get into the engine oil, leading to accelerated engine wear and damage.

It can also cause the engine to run rich, which can contaminate the catalytic converter, leading to costly repairs.

Myth #9: You should replace all your tires at the same time

It is a common misconception that you should replace all your tires at the same time. In reality, you only need to replace a tire when it is worn or damaged beyond repair.

Depending on how you drive and the type of tires you have, some tires may wear faster than others. This means that you may need to replace one or two tires at a time, rather than all four.

While it’s true that having all four tires replaced at the same time can help maintain balanced handling and traction, it can also be more costly in the long run. This is because you may end up replacing good tires unnecessarily.

Rotating your tires regularly, every 10,000 km or even 5,000 km is a good practice, can help to ensure that they wear evenly and last longer.

Myth #10: You shouldn’t start your car with the air conditioner on

Another common myth is that you should not start your car with the air conditioner on. However, modern cars and air conditioning systems are designed to operate efficiently from the moment the engine starts. Starting your car with the air conditioner on will not harm the engine or AC system.

In fact, starting your car with the air conditioner on can actually help prolong the life of your AC system. This is because the compressor is lubricated by the refrigerant in the AC system, which is only circulated when the AC is turned on.

Myth #11: Transmission fluid should be flushed every 50,000 km

Many drivers believe that they need to flush their transmission fluid every 50,000 km. However, this is not necessarily true. How often you need to change your transmission fluid depends on the make and model of your car, as well as your driving habits.

Some car manufacturers recommend changing the transmission fluid every 80,000 km or more, while others suggest changing it as often as every 24,000 km. Neglecting to change your transmission fluid can lead to a host of problems, including decreased performance, transmission slipping, and even transmission failure.

Myth #12: Premium petrol is always better for your car

Another common myth is that premium petrol is always better for your car. However, this is not necessarily true. Premium petrol has a higher octane rating than regular petrol, which can help prevent knocking in high-performance engines. However, most cars do not require premium petrol, and using it can be a waste of money.

Check your car’s owner manual to determine the recommended type of petrol for your car. Using regular petrol in a car that requires premium petrol can cause engine knocking and reduced performance.

However, using premium petrol in a car that only requires regular gasoline will not improve fuel efficiency or performance.

Myth #13: It’s okay to ignore warning lights on your dashboard

Warning lights on your dashboard are not just decorative accessories; they are essential safety features that alert you when something is wrong with your vehicle. Ignoring these warning lights can lead to serious consequences, including vehicle breakdown, accidents, or even fatalities. Therefore, it’s crucial to pay attention to these warning lights and take prompt action when necessary.

Different cars have different warning lights, but some common ones that you should be aware of include:

1. Check Engine Light: This light usually indicates a problem with your car’s engine or emission control system.
2. Battery Light: This light typically indicates a problem with your car’s battery or charging system.
3. Oil Pressure Light: This light usually indicates low oil pressure, which could cause engine damage if not addressed promptly.
4. Brake System Warning Light: This light typically indicates a problem with your car’s braking system.
5. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light: This light usually indicates that your car’s tire pressure is too low.

Ignoring warning lights on your dashboard can have severe consequences, including:

1. Increased repair costs: Ignoring warning lights could lead to more significant issues that will require more extensive and costly repairs.
2. Safety hazards: Warning lights like the brake system warning light and the airbag warning light indicate issues that could cause a safety hazard if not addressed promptly.
3. Engine failure: Ignoring warning lights like the oil pressure light could lead to engine failure and costly repairs.
4. Environmental damage: Warning lights like the check engine light could indicate issues with your car’s emission control system, which could lead to increased pollution and environmental damage.

Myth #14: Electric cars do not need servicing at all

While it is true that electric cars generally require less maintenance than traditional combustion engine cars due to their simpler drivetrain and fewer moving parts, they still require regular servicing to ensure they are operating at their best.

The battery pack in an electric car, for example, requires regular maintenance to ensure it is operating efficiently and to prevent any potential safety issues. In addition, the brakes and suspension system still require regular servicing to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Ignoring these components and failing to have them serviced regularly can lead to decreased performance, reduced efficiency, and potential safety hazards.

It is important for electric car owners to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and to have their car serviced by a qualified technician.

Myth #15: I don’t need to service my car when selling it

A common misconception among car owners is that they do not need to service their car when they plan to sell their car. This is a myth that can end up costing you more money in the long run.

When you sell your car, the buyer will likely inspect the vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase. If they find that the car has not been properly maintained, they may use it as a bargaining tool to negotiate a lower price. In some cases, the buyer may decide not to purchase the car at all.

To avoid this scenario, it is important to service your car before you plan to sell it. This includes regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations. It also includes repairing any issues with the car that could affect its value or safety.

By servicing your car before you sell it, you can increase its resale value and make it more attractive to potential buyers. This can help you sell your car faster and for a higher price.

If you’re planning to sell your car in Singapore, you can use Carsnap to help you to ensure a hassle-free selling process and get competitive prices for your vehicle. CarSnap is a trusted platform for buying and selling cars in Singapore.

Time to service your car?

In conclusion, regular car servicing is essential to maintain your car’s performance and longevity. By debunking these common myths, car owners in Singapore can make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Remember to adhere to your car manufacturer’s recommended servicing schedule, service your car at an authorised dealer, and budget for regular maintenance to keep your car running smoothly.

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