Whether you’re a new vehicle owner or you’ve been driving for years, it’s easy to overlook the little things that keep your car running smoothly. But those little things? They can turn into big problems fast — the kind that lead to costly repairs, poor performance, or even accidents.
In this guide, we’re diving into the most common car maintenance mistakes, why they matter, and how to steer clear of them to extend your car’s lifespan, improve fuel efficiency, and avoid the repair shop more often than necessary.
1. Ignoring the Owner’s Manual
Your car’s owner’s manual isn’t just a doorstop in your glove box. It contains specific maintenance schedules, recommended fluid types, and inspection intervals tailored to your exact make and model.
Mistake: Waiting for something to break instead of following preventative guidelines.
Fix: Read your manual — even if just the maintenance section — and follow the intervals for oil changes, brake system checks, and more.
2. Skipping Regular Oil Changes
One of the biggest mistakes car owners make? Waiting too long between oil changes.
Problem: Old or low motor oil can’t properly lubricate your engine parts, leading to overheating, poor performance, and eventually engine failure.
Fix: Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended interval and use the correct oil grade. Get a complete inspection with every oil change to spot early issues.
3. Forgetting to Check Tire Pressure
Incorrect tire pressure can reduce driving stability, wear out tires faster, and lower your gas mileage.
Mistake: Trusting your tires look “fine” instead of using a gauge.
Fix: Use your tire pressure monitoring system if your vehicle has one — or check manually at least once a month. Don’t forget to check the spare tire, too.
4. Not Rotating Tires
Your tires wear unevenly depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and whether your car is front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive.
Common mistake: Never rotating tires, leading to bald spots and early tire failure.
Fix: Rotate every 8,000 to 12,000 km, and get a tire wear inspection when you do.
5. Ignoring Brake Noises
That high-pitched squeal or grinding you hear when braking? That’s not just annoying — it’s a warning.
Issue: Worn brake pads can damage the rotors and compromise your entire brake assembly.
Fix: Don’t wait. A quick visit to your local auto repair shop can save you hundreds in brake repair costs later.
6. Skipping Windshield Wiper Replacement
Wipers are cheap — but forgetting to replace them can seriously affect visibility, especially in rain or snow.
Mistake: Letting streaky, noisy, or ineffective windshield wipers linger for months.
Fix: Replace every 6 to 12 months or sooner if they leave smudges on the windshield or make noise.
7. Driving with Dirty Air Filters
Air filters help your engine breathe. When clogged, they reduce power and make your car work harder than necessary.
Mistake: Never checking or replacing filters.
Fix: Inspect every oil change. Most filters are easy to access and cheap to replace.
8. Using the Wrong Fuel
Yes, it matters.
Mistake: Filling a Toyota or other late-model car with high-octane fuel when it only needs regular, or vice versa.
Fix: Use the fuel grade recommended in your manual. The wrong fuel can cause engine knock, poor mileage, or even engine damage over time.
9. Ignoring the “Check Engine” Light
Many vehicle owners let this light sit on for weeks, hoping the issue disappears. It doesn’t.
Problem: It could be a loose gas cap — or a sign of a failing engine sensor, misfire, or emissions issue.
Fix: Get a diagnostic scan from your auto repair shop to find out before the damage worsens.
10. Skipping Car Washes (Yes, Seriously)
Dirt, salt, and grime don’t just make your car look bad — they can also eat away at the paint and undercarriage.
Common mistake: Only getting car washes in the summer.
Fix: Schedule regular car washes — especially during winter when salt and road debris are worse. Consider undercarriage cleaning, too.
11. Letting the Car Sit for Long Periods
When your car sits unused for weeks or months (think winter storage or remote work), fluids settle, tires flatten, and the battery drains.
Mistake: Not running or driving the vehicle enough to keep it in good shape.
Fix: If your car sits, start it weekly and drive it for at least 20 minutes. Inflate tires and top up fluids before and after long storage.
12. Avoiding Routine Inspections
A quick 20-point inspection at your auto repair shop can catch small problems before they become expensive ones.
Common maintenance mistake: Waiting until a noise becomes a failure.
Fix: Book inspections seasonally or with every oil change. It’s the best way to avoid serious vehicle damage and keep maintenance costs predictable.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Small Mistakes Cost You Big
Staying on top of routine auto repair, fluid changes, brake inspections, and tire maintenance doesn’t have to be hard — but forgetting them can lead to major repairs or unsafe driving conditions.
These car maintenance mistakes are common, but they’re also easy to avoid with a little planning and help from the pros.
Need a hand? At Cambridge Auto Repair, our experienced mechanics help vehicle owners avoid costly mistakes with honest service, preventative maintenance, and transparent pricing.
