Car maintenance is surrounded by persistent myths that can cost you unnecessary money or even damage your vehicle. Let’s separate fact from fiction with these 5 common service misconceptions.
Myth 1: “You Must Service at the Dealership to Keep Warranty”
Truth: As per Indian consumer laws, you can service at any RTA-approved workshop without voiding warranty, provided:- Genuine parts are used
- Service logs are properly maintained
- For Jaipur residents, finding the best car service in Jaipur means comparing certified independent shops that often charge 30-40% less than dealerships
Myth 2: “Premium Fuel Requires Less Frequent Service”
Truth: Fuel grade doesn’t affect service intervals. What matters more:- Following manufacturer’s recommended schedule
- Using tools like the Autofy app to track actual engine condition
- Adapting to your driving conditions (city vs highway)
Myth 3: “Oil Changes Every 5,000 km Are Necessary”
Truth: Modern synthetic oils last 10,000-15,000 km. Check:- Your owner’s manual specifications
- Oil life monitoring systems (in newer cars)
- Actual oil condition through dipstick checks
Myth 4: “Car Wash Detergents Damage Paint”
Truth: Professional car wash soaps are pH-balanced. Real threats are:- Automatic brushes at cheap washes
- Letting bird droppings/bugs sit too long
- Using household detergents (which strip wax)
Myth 5: “New Cars Don’t Need First Service”
Truth: The first 1,000-5,000 km service is critical because:- Engine components need proper break-in
- Manufacturers often include free inspections
- Early issues can be caught under warranty