Taking good care of your car goes beyond regular maintenance and timely repairs. Sometimes, well-meaning advice or quirky habits can do more harm than good. In this article, we’ll explore 16 weird things you should never do to your car, highlighting why these unconventional practices can lead to serious issues. Keep your vehicle in top shape by steering clear of these bizarre mistakes.
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Use Cooking Oil as Engine Oil
Cooking oil lacks the proper viscosity and additives necessary for lubricating an engine. It can’t withstand high temperatures and pressures, leading to severe engine damage. Engine oil is specifically formulated to protect and maintain engine components, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Apply Nail Polish to Cover Car Scratches
Nail polish isn’t formulated for automotive paint and lacks durability. It can worsen the appearance over time as it peels and fades. Professional touch-up paint is designed to bond with your car’s finish and provide a lasting solution to minor scratches.
Use Household Bleach to Clean the Car Exterior
Bleach is highly corrosive and can strip the protective clear coat and paint from your car’s exterior. It can also damage rubber and plastic components. Automotive cleaners are specifically formulated to clean without harming your car’s finish or materials.
Install a Car Horn That Sounds Like an Animal
Installing a non-standard horn that mimics animal sounds can confuse other drivers and pedestrians, potentially leading to accidents. Car horns are designed to alert others to your presence with a clear, recognizable sound.
Cover Seats with Plastic Wrap
Plastic wrap makes seats uncomfortable and traps moisture, leading to unpleasant odors and potential mold growth. Proper seat covers are designed to protect seats while allowing them to breathe, ensuring comfort and longevity.
Use Baby Powder to Freshen Up the Car Interior
While baby powder can absorb odors, it can clog air vents and be harmful when inhaled. It also leaves a fine dust that’s hard to clean. Specialized automotive air fresheners are designed to neutralize odors safely and effectively.
Replace Windshield Wiper Fluid with Water
Water lacks the cleaning agents needed to remove grime and can freeze in cold weather, damaging the wiper fluid system. Windshield washer fluid contains antifreeze and cleaning solvents, ensuring clear visibility and proper system function year-round.
Paint the Car with House Paint
House paint isn’t designed to adhere to automotive surfaces and will quickly peel, chip, and fade. Automotive paint contains UV protectants and flex agents that withstand the elements and vehicle vibrations, providing a durable finish.
Stick Duct Tape on a Broken Window
Duct tape doesn’t provide adequate protection against weather or security threats and leaves a sticky residue that’s difficult to remove. Proper window repairs ensure safety, and visibility, and maintain your car’s structural integrity.
Install Oversized Tires Without Proper Adjustments
Installing oversized tires without adjusting the suspension and alignment can lead to poor handling, increased wear on suspension components, and inaccurate speedometer readings. Properly fitting tires ensure optimal performance and safety.
Drive with Unbalanced Loads on the Roof
Unbalanced loads affect the vehicle’s center of gravity, increasing the risk of rollovers and making handling unpredictable. Properly securing and balancing loads ensures stability and safety while driving
Use the Wrong Type of Fuel
Using the wrong type of fuel can cause severe engine knocking, loss of power, and potential engine damage. Always use the fuel type specified by the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Overload the Trunk
Overloading the trunk affects the vehicle’s balance and handling, making it unsafe to drive. It can also damage the suspension and tires. Adhering to the manufacturer’s load limits ensures safe and efficient driving.
Use DIY Tinted Film on Windows
Poorly applied tinted film can bubble, peel, and reduce visibility. It may also be illegal if it doesn’t meet local regulations. Professional tinting ensures compliance and maintains visibility and aesthetics.
Neglect Regular Tire Rotation
Regular tire rotation ensures even wear, extending tire life and maintaining optimal handling and safety. Neglecting this can lead to uneven wear, reducing tire performance and increasing the risk of blowouts.
Use Air Fresheners with Strong Chemicals
Strong chemicals in air fresheners can cause allergic reactions and damage interior materials. Using automotive-specific air fresheners ensures a pleasant smell without compromising health or interior quality.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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