When it comes to cars, many drivers would admit their technical knowledge is lacking. In addition, automotive technology is constantly changing, making it hard to separate car facts from fiction. The following are some of the most common myths and misconceptions about vehicles.

Myth 1: Higher octane fuel causes all cars to run better.

Fuels are rated according to how they prevent detonation in the engine. Higher performance engines generally have higher compression ratios and are more prone to detonation. They require high-octane fuel to prevent this. Other engines have different compression rates and usually require a lower-octane fuel. Unless a driver hears engine pinging or knocking, switching to a higher octane will not improve performance due to the engine design. Drivers can save their money and stick with “regular.”

Myth 2: You must service your vehicle at the dealership or the warranty will be voided.

It is illegal for dealerships to force service be done strictly at the dealership. Routine maintenance can be done by other vendors. Find out if certain after-market parts installation may affect the warranty, but even these should be okay.

Myth 3: Idling uses less gas than restarting the engine.

Drivers don’t have to sit idling, wasting gas and contributing to added emissions. Restarting a warm engine does not use more fuel than idling a car.

Myth 4: All wheel drive makes a vehicle invincible in inclement weather.

AWD can provide some added traction going up a snowy hill or coming out of a turn on a rain-slicked surface, but it doesn’t make a vehicle invincible. AWD will do little to help a driver avoid road hazards or grip the pavement in corners. Tires, suspension and driver skill are essential as well.

Myth 5: Side mirrors are properly adjusted when a driver can see the side of the car in each.

In fact, they are improperly adjusted if the sides of the car can be viewed. Moving out the mirrors just a bit more reduces the need to look over a shoulder to check for blind spots, which takes a driver’s eyes off the road.

Myth 6: All-season tires offer more traction in the rainy seasons.

Unless a person lives in a locale with considerable snowfall, it’s best to avoid all-season tires. A standard tire has more grip, both wet and dry, than an equivalent all-season tire.

Myth 7: Antilock braking systems were designed to create shorter stopping distances.

ABS actually was created to enable a driver to steer out of danger and not spin out while braking. Shorter stopping distances may occur, but they’re a side effect of the system’s design.

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