Fact: Usually, only vehicles with high-performance engines require a higher-octane fuel. Using fuel with an octane rating higher than that of the manufacturer's recommendation will not increase your car's performance, lower exhaust emissions or increase your engine/fuel system life.
Myth: A car's motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles.
Fact: You should follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for oil changes to keep your warranty current. However, once your vehicle is no longer under warranty, a switch to a synthetic oil could extend your oil change intervals. Due to advances in lubrication and filtration technology, many newer cars require a drain interval longer than 3,000 miles.
There are a number of quality synthetic motor oils from which you can choose. For example, Royal Purple motor oils are recommended to extend oil change intervals to 12,000 miles under normal driving conditions, and have also been shown to improve fuel economy.
Myth: A dealership must handle all maintenance to keep a vehicle under warranty.
Fact: The key to maintaining your factory warranty is that car care items specified in the owner's manual are serviced 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: Dishwashing detergents are suitable for car washing.
Fact: It is common for people to use dish detergents to wash their car. However, it's best to opt for a product specifically designed for automotive use because dish detergents are designed to remove animal and vegetable fats and will target car wax instead.
Myth: All oil filters are the same.
Fact: Inexpensive filters are typically made with the 3,000-mile interval in mind. Often, they can deteriorate rapidly after 3,000 miles. There are a number of new, high-performance, premium oil filters on the market from manufacturers such as Royal Purple, WIX and K&N. These filters are made for extended oil drain intervals.
For example, Royal Purple uses a proprietary long-life, microglass media that provides protection for 12,000 miles. It also provides an increased level of protection due to the density of the filtration. Royal Purple filters are compatible with all synthetic and conventional oils.
You can learn more at www.royalpurple.com.
