The car industry is filled with myths and misconceptions that often mislead consumers. Let’s cut through the hype and set the record straight on 21 popular car myths of the 21st century.
1. Electric Cars Aren’t Really Green
Many believe EVs aren’t truly eco-friendly due to the energy and materials needed to produce them. However, studies show that over their lifetime, EVs produce significantly fewer emissions than gasoline cars, even when considering battery production.
2. Autonomous Cars Will Be Mainstream Soon
Despite the hype, fully autonomous cars are still decades away. Technical challenges and regulatory hurdles mean widespread adoption likely won’t happen until at least 2040.
3. Premium Gas Is Always Better
Using premium gas when your car doesn’t need it is a waste of money. Most engines are designed to run perfectly well on regular gasoline, and using premium won’t improve performance or fuel efficiency.
4. All-Wheel Drive Is Necessary for Snow
All-wheel drive helps in snowy conditions, but winter tyres are far more important for traction. Even front-wheel-drive cars with good winter tyres outperform all-wheel-drive cars with all-season tyres in the snow.
5. Manual Transmissions Get Better Gas Mileage
This was true in the past, but modern automatic transmissions are often more fuel-efficient than their manual counterparts due to advancements in technology.
6. Regular Oil Changes Every 3,000 Miles
Modern engines and synthetic oils have extended the interval for oil changes to 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Sticking to the old 3,000-mile rule is unnecessary and wastes resources.
7. Red Cars Get More Tickets
There’s no evidence that red cars get more speeding tickets than other colours. Ticketing is based on driving behaviour, not the colour of the car.
8. Bigger Cars Are Safer
While larger vehicles can offer more protection in collisions, they are more prone to rollovers. Advanced safety features and good crash test ratings are more important than size alone.
9. Car Dealerships Give the Best Financing
Dealerships often mark up interest rates for profit. Before shopping for a car, it’s usually better to secure financing through a bank or credit union.
10. Warm Up Your Car Before Driving
Modern engines don’t need to be warmed up before driving. Driving gently for the first few minutes is better than idling.
11. Electric Cars Have Short Ranges
While early EVs had limited ranges, many modern electric cars can travel over 250 miles on a single charge, with some models exceeding 300 miles.
12. Used Cars Aren’t Reliable
Certified pre-owned programs and detailed vehicle histories make used cars a reliable and cost-effective option. They often come with warranties that provide peace of mind.
13. Car Batteries Last Forever
Car batteries typically last 3-5 years. Extreme temperatures and frequent short trips can shorten their lifespan.
14. Hybrid Cars Are Expensive to Maintain
Hybrids often have lower maintenance costs due to less wear on the engine and brakes. Regenerative braking and efficient engine designs contribute to this.
15. New Cars Are Always Better
New cars depreciate quickly, losing up to 20% of their value in the first year. Slightly used cars offer better value and often come with the latest technology and safety features.
16. Diesel Cars Are Dirty
Modern diesel engines are cleaner and more efficient than ever, meeting strict emissions standards. However, they are still less popular due to past scandals and the rise of EVs.
17. Fuel Additives Improve Performance
Most fuel additives don’t significantly improve performance or fuel efficiency. Quality gasoline already contains necessary detergents and additives.
18. Black Cars Get Hotter
Black cars do absorb more heat, but the difference is minimal compared to lighter colours. Modern air conditioning systems can easily compensate for this.
19. Car Technology Is Always Reliable
High-tech features can be prone to malfunctions and expensive repairs. Basic models with fewer electronic components can sometimes be more reliable in the long term.
20. Leasing Is a Waste of Money
Leasing can be a good option for those who like driving new cars and want lower monthly payments. It’s also beneficial for businesses due to tax deductions.
21. Car Dealers Are the Best for Service+
Independent mechanics often offer quality service at lower prices. They can perform most maintenance and repairs without voiding warranties.
Cutting Through the Myths
Understanding these common myths can help you make more informed decisions about your car. Don’t let the hype mislead you; stay informed and drive smarter.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Netpixi.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.