6 Car Myths Busted: What Every Driver Should Know

As a driver, you’re bombarded with advice about your vehicle every now and then. Some of it can be invaluable, but a lot of it can also lead to misconceptions about how you should maintain and drive your car. So, let’s bust some myths and set the record straight.

1. Premium Gas is Always Better

Not necessarily. Unless your vehicle manufacturer specifically recommends it, using premium gas won’t make your car perform better or improve its gas mileage. Most cars on the road are designed to run on regular gasoline. So, save your money and stick with the regular unleaded.

2. A Dirty Car is More Fuel Efficient

This myth comes from the idea that a layer of dirt on your car could work like the dimples on a golf ball, reducing air resistance. The truth, however, is a clean car is more aerodynamic and thus more fuel-efficient. The grime and dirt can actually create drag, which will make your engine work harder.

3. SUVs are Safer Than Cars

While it’s true that the size and weight of an SUV can provide an advantage in certain types of collisions, they also have a higher risk of rolling over due to their higher center of gravity. It all comes down to how safely you drive, no matter the type of vehicle you’re in.

4. Manual Transmissions Get Better Mileage

This used to be true when automatics were less sophisticated than they are now. But with advancements in automatic transmission technology, this isn’t always the case anymore. Many modern automatics can match, or even exceed, manuals in fuel economy.

5. Using the AC is Better Than Rolling Down the Windows

There’s a common belief that rolling down the windows creates more wind resistance, causing your car to use more fuel than if you simply used the air conditioning. While it’s true that using the AC can decrease your fuel economy, the difference between AC use and open windows is negligible in most cars.

6. You Can Outrun the Police

Well, we’re stepping into a bit dangerous territory here. Not that anyone should try, but thinking you can outrun the police in a car chase is a potentially deadly myth. Police have more than just speed on their side, they have the resources of the entire force, including air support. Interestingly, this myth is often propagated by Hollywood and some popular video games.

There’s no denying that staying informed and learning the truth behind these common car myths can make you a more efficient, safer driver. For more in-depth knowledge about being in control while in a potential threat situation, take a look at the spec ops shooting review I’ve put together.

Besides, driving isn’t only about being behind the wheel; it’s also about being prepared and ready to handle unforeseen situations. To that end, here are 8 life-saving wilderness tips from a former special forces soldier that could come in handy.

And, as we all have probably realized by now, being on the road isn’t always about fast cars and freedom; it can sometimes throw a curveball your way. But remember, it’s about being equipped with the right knowledge and tools. Like this article on 5 myths about home mortgages that can hurt your wallet which can come in handy when you’re on the journey of owning your dream car or even a house.

Keep these myths in mind, equip yourself with knowledge, and you’re sure to have a better driving experience.

Don’t Warm Up Your Car

If you’re living in an area with a cold climate, you’ve probably been told to warm up your car before driving. This might have been true for older cars, but modern vehicles are designed to be driven almost immediately. Idling wastes fuel and pumps greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Instead, start your car, scrape off any ice if needed, and drive off gently to let the engine warm up.

All-Wheel Drive Guarantees Winter Driving Safety

While all-wheel drive (AWD) does provide improved traction in slippery conditions, it can’t help you stop any faster. Stopping distance is determined by the grip between your tires and the road, which is why winter tires are essential in snowy or icy conditions. AWD can even provide a false sense of security, leading drivers to overestimate their ability to handle slippery roads. Remember, no feature replaces safe driving habits.

Red Cars Get More Speeding Tickets

This is one of the most popular car myths. The idea is that the bright color of red cars makes them more noticeable to police officers, and thus more likely to get pulled over. However, there’s no evidence to support this claim. The color of your car doesn’t affect its likelihood of getting a speeding ticket. The main factors that determine whether you get a ticket are your speed and the way you drive.