At Tillema Auto, we know that taking care of your car can feel overwhelming—especially with so much conflicting advice out there. Let’s clear the air by busting some of the most common misconceptions about car maintenance, so you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.

7 Common Misconceptions About Car Maintenance

At Tillema Auto, our most important goal is to serve our neighbors well—and that means keeping you safe with professional maintenance and reliable used vehicles.

But more than just providing top-notch service, we also value honesty and fairness. As a family-owned dealership, we also want to treat YOU like family. When you bring your vehicle into our service center, you can trust that we won’t recommend anything that we wouldn’t recommend for our own vehicles.

Myth #1: Premium Fuel Is Better for Every Car

Reality:
Unless your car specifically requires premium fuel, using higher-octane gas offers no benefit. Most vehicles are designed to run efficiently on regular unleaded fuel. Save your money and stick to what your owner’s manual recommends.

Myth #2: You Must Warm Up Your Car Before Driving

Reality:
This advice is outdated. Modern engines are designed to operate efficiently almost immediately after starting. Idling your car for long periods wastes fuel and increases emissions. In most cases, just 30 seconds is enough before you can drive off gently.

Myth #3: Tire Pressure Should Match the Number on the Tire Sidewall

Reality:
The number on the tire’s sidewall is the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle. The correct tire pressure is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in your owner’s manual. Keeping tires properly inflated improves safety, fuel economy, and tire lifespan.

Myth #4: You Have to Service Your Car at the Dealership to Keep the Warranty Valid

Reality:
You are not required to return to the dealership for routine maintenance to keep your warranty intact. Any qualified, trustworthy repair shop can perform maintenance, as long as you keep records of the work performed.

Myth #5: If Nothing Seems Wrong, Maintenance Isn’t Needed

Reality:
Many car problems develop gradually and aren’t noticeable until it’s too late. Regular maintenance—like fluid checks, brake inspections, and tire rotations—prevents costly repairs and keeps your vehicle safe.

At Tillema Auto, we check many of these components during our regular oil changes, helping you catch potential problems before they become costly repairs.

Myth #6: Using the Air Conditioner Hurts Fuel Economy More Than Rolling Down the Windows

Reality:
Both air conditioning and open windows can affect fuel economy, but at highway speeds, open windows create drag that can reduce efficiency as much as, or even more than, using the AC. Use whichever is most comfortable, especially at higher speeds.

Myth #7: Modern Cars Don’t Need Maintenance

Reality:
Even the latest vehicles require regular care—oil changes, brake service, tire rotations, and fluid checks. Skipping maintenance can shorten your car’s lifespan and lead to expensive repairs down the road.

Check out these maintenance checklists to make sure you’re not missing anything.

• Vehicle Maintenance Checklist: 10 Ways to Keep Your Vehicle in Great Shape
• Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter
• Spring Car Maintenance Checklist

Tillema Auto—Your Byron Center Family Dealership—Is Here to Help

Don’t let myths steer you wrong! Trust your owner’s manual, keep up with regular maintenance, and consult trusted professionals for honest advice. Staying informed is the best way to keep your car running smoothly for years to come.

Ready for your next service? Contact Tillema Auto—your local experts in honest, reliable car care.