Auto Bits: Car care myths exposed

Monday

Knowledge may be power, but that's only the case if you put what you know into good use. When applying it to car care, weeding through the myths can result in financial savings and longer vehicle life.

- Myth: My car engine needs to warm up before driving.

During winter months, it is a common practice for drivers to warm their vehicles up inside, but a cold engine will warm up faster when it is being driven instead of idling. If you use your car infrequently, take a few minutes to warm up your car before you drive away. This allows cold, thick oil to warm up, protecting your engine from damage. For cold weather starts, all you need is 30 seconds to ensure proper oil flow and lubrication. In the event of frigid temperatures, driving at a slower speed for a few miles will give your car enough time to warm up.

- Myth: My car's motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles.

It is recommended that vehicle owners follow their manufacturer's maintenance intervals while it is still under warranty. However, if your car is no longer under warranty, try using a synthetic oil that can extend your oil change intervals. The number of miles you can allow between your oil changes will depend on the way you drive and the oxidations stability of the motor oil.

- Myth: A dealership must handle all maintenance on my vehicle while it is under warranty.

The key to maintaining your factory warranty is that car care items specified in the owner's manual are performed on schedule. As long as the service is documented, it can be performed by any auto-repair shop. You can also do the work yourself; just make sure you keep accurate records and receipts in case warranty issues arise and for future repair.

- Myth: Are dishwashing detergents suitable for washing my car?

It is common for people to use dish detergents to wash your car, but do so with some warning. Dish detergents are designed to remove animal or vegetable fat and will equally target the wax on your car. Instead, opt for a product specifically for automotive use. Quality products are based on detergents and not soaps which are made of rendered animal byproduct that contain trace elements that could damage your paint.

- ARA

The List

Looking for a deal on a new car? Check out these automakers – they have the best deals you can get right now, according to US News. (Most deals are limited to specific models, so make sure you check before committing to a certain vehicle.)

Acura: 1.9% APR financing

Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Chevrolet: 0% APR financing

Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep: 0% APR financing

Ford, Lincoln, Mercury: 0% APR financing

Honda: 2.9% APR financing

Mazda: 0% APR financing

Mercedes-Benz: 1.9% APR financing

Toyota: 2.9% APR financing

For more details, check with your local dealer or go to http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Best-Car-Deals.

Did You Know

Toyota recently announced another major recall, this one affecting 2.3 million vehicles because of a problem with accelerator pedals. Contact Toyota or your local dealer for more information.

Car Q&A

Question: I own a 1999 Ford Escort with 144,000 miles. The only problem is the idle speed is not consistent. I have replaced the oxygen sensor and spark plugs and still have the same problem. What causes the idle speed variation?

Answer: The main cause for idle speed variation is unmetered air entering the engine. We would need to look at all the possibilities of air entry. First take a look at all the vacuum lines, and if there is a mass air flow, meter any hoses after it. Check for a leaking vacuum brake booster, EGR valve or any gasket area. The use of a scan tool to monitor the oxygen sensor and idle motor with propane or carburetor cleaner or a smoke machine will quickly help locate the vacuum leak. I have seen a lot of people replace the idle motor and throttle position sensor for this reason, then end up finding the actual problem.