Mechanics cringe when they see you doing certain things to your vehicle. As a former mechanic, I have seen it all and, honestly, many people treat their cars poorly. It’s not a place to store trash or just a hunk of metal to get you from point A to point B. I’ve always said that if you treat your vehicle well, it will treat you well in return. And that’s the truth. Staying on top of car maintenance and being kind to your vehicle go a long way. That said, here are 11 things mechanics really wish you’d stop doing to your car.
A Little Car Maintenance Goes A Long Way
1. Riding the Brakes Downhill
Many drivers keep their foot on the brake while going downhill, which causes the brake pads to overheat. Mechanics often see warped rotors or premature brake wear because of this. Instead, shift into a lower gear and let engine braking do most of the work. It’s safer, smoother, and much easier on your braking system. Trust the technology built into your car—it’s designed to help you control your speed responsibly.
2. Skipping Regular Oil Changes
Engine oil isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a lifeline for your vehicle’s engine. Dirty or low oil can cause major internal damage over time, and mechanics are constantly fixing engines that could’ve been saved with a $40 oil change. Stick to your car’s recommended interval, whether it’s every 5,000 miles or when your digital indicator tells you. Waiting too long between oil changes leads to sludge buildup, decreased efficiency, and expensive repairs.
3. Overloading Your Vehicle
Your car isn’t meant to carry everything you own, especially not regularly. Overloading puts excess stress on the suspension, brakes, and transmission. Mechanics frequently replace worn parts on vehicles that are consistently overloaded. Check your owner’s manual for the weight limit and avoid using your car like a moving van. Long-term abuse like this shortens your vehicle’s life more than you might think.
4. Using Cheap or Wrong Fuel
Fuel matters more than people realize. Mechanics often see engine issues from people using lower-grade fuel than recommended or trying to save a buck with questionable gas station brands. Using the wrong octane can cause knocking, reduce efficiency, and lead to sensor problems. Follow the fuel recommendations in your owner’s manual—not what’s cheapest at the pump. Saving a few cents per gallon isn’t worth damaging your engine.
5. Driving With Low Tire Pressure
Tires with low air pressure don’t just affect fuel economy—they’re also dangerous. Mechanics constantly fix uneven tread wear, suspension stress, and even bent wheels from underinflated tires. Use a tire pressure gauge monthly and keep them inflated to the proper PSI. This simple habit improves handling, extends tire life, and prevents blowouts. Your car will thank you with smoother, safer rides.
6. Letting Your Car Sit for Weeks
Cars are meant to be driven, not stored indefinitely. When a car sits unused for long periods, batteries die, tires develop flat spots, and fluids settle or degrade. Mechanics often replace batteries and fuel pumps simply because a car hasn’t been started in a while. Even if you don’t need to go far, take it for a short drive every week. Keeping your car moving is one of the easiest ways to maintain it.
7. Slamming the Accelerator and Brakes
Driving like you’re in a race shortens the life of your car—period. Hard acceleration and abrupt stops are brutal on your engine, brakes, and transmission. Mechanics often see premature wear on parts like brake pads, motor mounts, and suspension systems from aggressive drivers. Smooth driving isn’t just safer—it’s also cheaper in the long run. Gentle, steady control keeps both your vehicle and passengers happier.
8. Ignoring Strange Noises
That squealing, rattling, or clunking sound isn’t something to brush off. Mechanics rely on these early signs to detect issues before they spiral. A small squeak could be a belt, and a clunk might indicate suspension problems. Ignoring unusual sounds until something breaks always results in higher repair bills. When in doubt, get it checked out early—it’s usually a much cheaper fix.
9. Washing the Car Too Aggressively
While keeping your car clean is smart, using abrasive brushes or automatic car washes with worn-out rollers can scratch your paint. Mechanics often point out damage that results in premature rusting or clear coat peeling. Use gentle microfiber towels and proper soap to clean your car. A soft touch helps preserve both the beauty and the resale value of your vehicle.
10. DIY Repairs Without Research
While DIY saves money, bad DIY costs a lot more. Mechanics frequently see customers who tried to fix things with incorrect tools, the wrong parts, or YouTube instructions that didn’t apply to their model. If you’re going to repair something yourself, know your limits and always consult a repair manual or professional first. Sometimes, it’s cheaper to pay a mechanic upfront than to fix a DIY mistake.
11. Using Your Car as a Garbage Can
We’ve all left a cup or wrapper in the car, but treating your vehicle like a mobile dumpster has consequences. Mechanics say neglected interiors lead to mold, foul odors, and clogged air vents. Debris can even affect mechanical components under the seats or in the trunk. Cleaning your car weekly isn’t just for aesthetics—it’s essential to its upkeep. Treat your car like something worth maintaining, not just transportation.
Mechanics Know: Bad Habits Shorten Car Life
When you have a trusted mechanic available to work on your car, it’s important to keep them happy, too. If you are waiting too long to perform car maintenance or you are treating your car poorly, we judge you behind the scenes. In fact, sometimes we know we’ll see the car again sooner rather than later (simply because of the way you treat your vehicle). At the end of the day, a little prevention and action now will help you avoid a lot of car trouble down the road.
Which one of these car habits are you guilty of? Share your thoughts—and your most expensive repair mistake—in the comments below!
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