HIGH QUALITY GENUINE OEM, AFTERMARKET SPARES
“Don’t use the handbrake, it’ll wear out faster.”
“Let your car idle for 10 minutes before driving.”
“Just pour water instead of coolant. It’s the same thing.”
Sound familiar?
In India, car advice comes from all directions. Mechanics, friends, YouTube, even your neighbour who drove an Ambassador once in the 90s. But how much of that advice is actually true?
This blog busts 21 of the most common car maintenance myths Indian drivers still follow and shows you what they could really be costing you.
Myth: Long idling helps your engine settle in.
Fact: Modern engines are fuel-injected and ready to move in 30 to 60 seconds.
You’re just wasting fuel and increasing engine wear.
Myth: If it runs fine, it’s safe.
Fact: It could be a minor or major issue. Ignoring it risks bigger damage.
Scan the code. Don’t guess.
Myth: Leaving it on charges it up.
Fact: Idling offers minimal charge. You need a proper drive or external charger.
Get the battery tested and replaced if necessary.
Myth: No warning means pressure is fine.
Fact: Tyre pressure drops over time. TPMS isn't always instant.
Check manually at least once a month.
Myth: Only OEM parts are safe.
Fact: Quality aftermarket parts can be as good or better if sourced right.
Buy from reliable sources like Autozilla.
Myth: Coolant is optional in Indian climates.
Fact: Water lacks anti-rust and thermal balance. Use proper coolant.
Protects your radiator and engine.
Myth: Gas top-up is the fix-all.
Fact: It could be a clogged filter or electrical fault. Diagnose first.
Get a full system check before refilling.
Myth: All cars follow the 10k rule.
Fact: Driving style and traffic affect oil life. Check your manual.
Consider 6,000–8,000 km in heavy traffic cities.
Myth: Squeals are harmless.
Fact: Could indicate worn pads or rotor issues.
Inspect and replace pads early to avoid extra costs.
Myth: It's fine as long as visibility is clear.
Fact: Cracks spread and reduce structural safety.
Repair or replace early.
Myth: More expensive fuel means better mileage and power.
Fact: Only cars designed for high-octane fuel benefit. Others won’t.
Your owner's manual specifies the correct fuel grade.
Myth: Clean engines run better.
Fact: Water and pressure can damage electronics and wiring.
Wipe dust with a cloth. Avoid spraying directly.
Myth: Just add oil, no need to drain.
Fact: Old oil becomes acidic and loses viscosity. It must be replaced.
Stick to your service schedule.
Myth: Engine braking is better.
Fact: It wears out your clutch prematurely.
Use brakes for braking. Let clutch live longer.
Myth: Car feels sluggish with AC on.
Fact: Yes, it draws power but modern engines handle it efficiently.
Your car hesitates abnormally. Then it needs a check-up.
Myth: Wider is safer.
Fact: It affects mileage, suspension, and steering response.
Follow manufacturer tyre size recommendations.
Myth: It’s more efficient to refill only when near empty.
Fact: Low fuel can overheat your fuel pump.
Refill when quarter tank remains.
Myth: Higher price = higher quality.
Fact: Use oil that matches your engine specs. Over-spec oils don't add value.
Look for grade (e.g. 5W30) not price.
Myth: No noises = no problems.
Fact: Internal wear isn’t always noisy. Delayed servicing worsens damage.
Stick to manufacturer intervals even if car feels okay.
Myth: Oil changes are based only on kilometers.
Fact: Oil degrades with time too — not just usage.
Change oil every 6–12 months even if mileage is low.
Myth: Servicing frequently improves longevity.
Fact: Over-servicing wastes money and may cause over-torquing, fluid contamination, etc.
Service as recommended, not sooner.
Most car problems do not start with a loud bang. They start with a belief that seems harmless at first.
By avoiding these 21 myths, you protect your car, save money, and drive smarter. If you're looking for genuine or high-quality aftermarket car parts, Autozilla makes it easy to find, compare, and order online.
Note: Always refer to your car’s manual or a certified technician for model-specific advice.
