Stressed woman standing in front of a car with the hood open.

10 Things You’re Doing Wrong to Maintain Your Car (and How to Fix Them)

Stressed woman standing in front of a car with the hood open.
Here are the most common mistakes you’re making when it comes to your car’s maintenance.

Maintaining your vehicle is essential for its longevity, safety, and performance. However, even the most well-intentioned drivers may be unknowingly making mistakes that can lead to costly repairs down the line. At Certified Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you avoid these common pitfalls. Here are 10 car maintenance mistakes you might be making when it comes to car maintenance — and how to fix them!

1. Ignoring Your Tire Pressure

It’s easy to overlook tire pressure, but under-inflated or over-inflated tires can lead to poor fuel efficiency, uneven tire wear, and even blowouts. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure monthly, especially before long drives.

Fix: Use a tire pressure gauge to check your tire levels regularly, and ensure they match the manufacturer’s recommendations, found in your owner’s manual or on the inside of the driver’s door.

2. Delaying Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Waiting too long between oil changes can result in engine damage, poor performance, and lower fuel efficiency.

Fix: Stick to a consistent oil change schedule based on your car’s make and model. For most vehicles, it’s every 5,000-7,500 miles, but check your owner’s manual for specifics.

3. Skipping Brake Checks

Brake wear happens gradually, which means it’s easy to miss until there’s a serious issue. However, ignoring brake inspections can lead to dangerous driving conditions and expensive repairs.

Fix: Have your brakes checked during regular maintenance visits, or sooner if you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel vibrations when braking.

4. Using the Wrong Type of Fuel

Using the wrong fuel grade can impact your car’s performance and fuel efficiency. This can lead to engine knocking and even long-term damage.

Fix: Always use the recommended fuel grade for your vehicle. If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual or ask a trusted mechanic.

5. Not Rotating Your Tires

Tire rotation helps your tires wear evenly and last longer. Skipping this step can lead to uneven wear, which means replacing your tires sooner than necessary.

Fix: Rotate your tires every 5,000-8,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s manual. Many auto shops will do this as part of regular maintenance visits.

6. Neglecting the Battery

It’s easy to forget about your battery until it’s dead, leaving you stranded. Corrosion, extreme temperatures, and old age can all impact battery life.

Fix: Have your battery tested regularly and look for corrosion on the terminals. If your car struggles to start or your battery is over three years old, it may be time for a replacement.

7. Ignoring the Check Engine Light

When that little light comes on, it’s tempting to ignore it, especially if your car seems to be running fine. However, ignoring the check engine light can lead to more significant problems over time.

Fix: Don’t wait. Bring your car in for a diagnostic test as soon as the light appears. Small issues can often be fixed before they turn into major repairs.

8. Forgetting to Change Air Filters

Your car’s air filter keeps dirt, debris, and contaminants out of your engine. A clogged filter can reduce fuel efficiency and performance.

Fix: Change your air filter every 12,000-15,000 miles or as needed. If you drive in dusty conditions, you may need to replace it more frequently.

9. Using Water Instead of Coolant

In a pinch, you might be tempted to top off your radiator with water instead of coolant. But water lacks the protective qualities of coolant and can lead to overheating or rust inside your engine.

Fix: Always use the proper coolant for your vehicle, and check your coolant levels regularly.

10. Driving with Low Fuel

Running on fumes is not only stressful but also hard on your fuel pump. It can lead to overheating and premature failure of the pump.

Fix: Try to keep your tank at least a quarter full to prevent damage to your fuel system and avoid unexpected breakdowns.


By avoiding these common car maintenance mistakes, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. If you’re unsure about any of these issues or need professional help, Certified Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo is here to assist you. Our experienced mechanics can handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs, ensuring your car stays in top shape.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and keep your car in the best condition possible!

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