10 Car Myths Drivers Still Believe in 2025

Debunking Common Car Myths: What Drivers Still Get Wrong in 2025

Despite advancements in automotive technology, many drivers continue to believe outdated or incorrect information about car maintenance and performance. These misconceptions can lead to unnecessary expenses and even potential damage to your vehicle. Let's set the record straight on some of the most common car myths still believed today.

Myth 1: You Must Change Your Oil Every 3,000 Miles

The Truth: Modern vehicles and synthetic oils have extended oil change intervals. Most manufacturers now recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, with some synthetic oils allowing up to 15,000 miles between changes. Always consult your owner's manual for specific guidelines.

Myth 2: Premium Gasoline Improves Performance in All Cars

The Truth: Unless your vehicle specifically requires premium fuel, using it offers no benefit. Premium gas has a higher octane rating, which is only necessary for high-performance engines to prevent knocking. Using premium fuel in a regular engine doesn't enhance performance or fuel efficiency.

Myth 3: You Need to Warm Up Your Car Before Driving in Cold Weather

The Truth: Modern engines are designed to be driven almost immediately after starting, even in cold conditions. Idling your car to warm it up wastes fuel and can cause unnecessary engine wear. It's better to drive gently for the first few minutes to allow the engine to reach optimal operating temperature.

Myth 4: Dish Soap Is Safe for Washing Your Car

The Truth: Dish soap is formulated to remove grease and can strip away your car's protective wax coating, leading to dull paint and potential rust. It's best to use car-specific wash products that are designed to clean without damaging the finish.

Myth 5: You Must Service Your Car at the Dealership to Maintain the Warranty

The Truth: Under U.S. law, you can have your car serviced at any qualified repair shop without voiding the warranty, as long as the maintenance is performed according to the manufacturer's specifications. Keep records of all services performed to ensure warranty compliance.

Myth 6: Manual Transmissions Always Offer Better Fuel Economy

The Truth: While manual transmissions once had a fuel efficiency advantage, modern automatic transmissions have become more efficient. In some cases, automatics now surpass manuals in fuel economy due to advanced technologies like continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) and optimized gear ratios.

Myth 7: Electric Vehicles Are More Prone to Fires Than Gasoline Cars

The Truth: Studies have shown that electric vehicles (EVs) are not more fire-prone than their gasoline counterparts. In fact, EVs have fewer moving parts and stringent safety standards, making them less likely to catch fire.

Myth 8: You Should Inflate Tires to the Pressure Listed on the Tire Sidewall

The Truth: The pressure listed on the tire sidewall indicates the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure, usually found on a sticker inside the driver's door or in the owner's manual.

Myth 9: Replacing All Four Tires at Once Is Always Necessary

The Truth: While replacing all four tires is ideal for even wear, it's not always necessary. If only one or two tires are worn, and the others are in good condition with similar tread depth, you can replace just the worn ones. However, for all-wheel-drive vehicles, it's often recommended to replace all four to prevent drivetrain issues.

Myth 10: Larger Vehicles Are Always Safer Than Smaller Ones

The Truth: Vehicle safety depends on various factors, including design, safety features, and crash test ratings. Some smaller cars with advanced safety technology can perform better in crash tests than larger vehicles lacking such features. Always consult safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS or NHTSA when evaluating vehicle safety.

Believing in car myths can lead to unnecessary expenses and potential vehicle damage. Stay informed by consulting your owner's manual and relying on reputable sources for automotive advice. By debunking these common myths, you can make better decisions for your vehicle's maintenance and performance.