Fact or Fiction: Car Maintenance Myths Draining Your Wallet

There are a lot of myths floating around out there about what car owners should do to help save money. The problem is not only that some of these myths do not help save drivers money, but they can actually cost drivers more money in the long run! Our experts at Warrenton Toyota in Warrenton, Virginia want you to stop draining your wallet and take your savings to the bank after you change a few habits that may be costing you extra on your car!

Myth #1 – Get Your Oil Changed Every 3000 Miles

No, your local oil change station has not been lying to you all these years. There was a time when the general rule for oil changes was every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever came first. Luckily for your bank account, auto engineering has come a long way and most modern vehicles can go longer between oil changes. Most vehicles are able to go at least 7,500 miles in between oil changes, but it varies from vehicle to vehicle. The easiest way to find out how often your Toyota needs an oil change is to consult with your owner’s manual. Check this BEFORE you go get your oil changed, and ask them to make sure the accurate mileage is listed on the reminder sticker they put on your window. This could cut your costs on oil changes in half each year.

Myth #2 – Turn Off the Air Conditioner to Save on Gas

Studies have shown that the difference in gas mileage when running the air conditioner is so small that the drag of the wind from having the windows down as an alternative can actually cost you more in gas mileage. So, if it is a warm summer day, crank up that AC and enjoy the drive.  

Myth #3 – You Should Always Use Premium Gas Because it is Better for Your Car

This is one of those things that is determined by the vehicle. Some vehicles do require premium gasoline, this is something that you can also find in your owner’s manual. If your vehicle does not require premium gasoline, you are paying a higher price without actually needing to. Unless you just feel like spending more money every time you fill up your gas tank, skip the premium gasoline unless your vehicle specifically needs it.

Want to know how to get the most out of your Toyota? The expert staff at the Warrenton Toyota Service Center is here to help. Schedule an appointment, and they will help you put all those pesky maintenance myths behind you!