5 false beliefs about car maintenance
Do you own a new or used car? If you don’t want to have to replace it prematurely, it’s in your best interest to take good care of it. In this blog post, your OCTO Auto Service Plus family mechanic debunks five myths about vehicle maintenance.
- You have to get your car serviced at the dealership to validate the warranty
Don’t let anyone try to convince you that you absolutely must have your car serviced at a dealership. According to the rules in Quebec, you can bring your car to any mechanic of your choice. As long as you perform the recommended maintenance and keep your invoices, your warranty will remain valid.
- A car that hardly ever gets driven doesn’t need any maintenance
Leaving your car parked in the yard or garage for an extended period has only one advantage: it saves you money on fuel. However, cars that don’t get used can unknowingly develop a host of problems, including a damaged battery and rusty brakes.
- The check engine light rarely means there’s an emergency
You’ve probably been told that if the check engine light comes on, there’s nothing to worry about. Although that can be true in some cases, you should know that if that light does come on, it means there’s a problem. Sometimes, all it takes is to close the fuel cap to make the light go out. However, sometimes it can indicate a serious problem. For peace of mind, make an appointment at your nearest repair shop as soon as possible.
- The chances of having a mechanical problem in summer are practically zero
It’s true that Canadian winters can put your vehicle through the wringer. However, just because the weather’s warmer doesn’t mean your car is immune to mechanical problems. It can actually be the opposite! In summer, your car is subject to other challenges that can damage its battery, engine or transmission. Avoid paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repairs by having your car regularly inspected by a qualified mechanic.
- Purchasing high-quality windshield wipers and replacing them is pointless
Waiting for your windshield wipers to wear down to the point of leaving behind streaks or breaking is a high-risk gamble. Remember that visibility is of paramount importance when you’re driving. If your windshield isn’t clear and an obstacle comes into view, you may have a slower reaction time and get into an accident.
OCTO is the place to go for expert advice on car mechanics Do you want to keep your car in good condition for as long as possible and benefit from tailor-made maintenance advice? Request an appointment with your nearest OCTO Auto Service Plus family mechanic.