Summary:
Bad driving habits might not seem like a big deal, but over time, they can lead to expensive repairs and shorten your vehicle’s lifespan. Former service advisor Sarah Kennedy, who spent over a decade writing repair estimates, outlines the most common behaviors that quietly damage your car.
One major offender is shifting between reverse and drive without coming to a full stop, which puts unnecessary stress on the transmission. Riding the brakes downhill overheats them, leading to brake fade and warped rotors. Flooring the accelerator with a cold engine prevents oil from circulating properly, while carrying excess weight strains the suspension, engine, and brakes.
Drivers often ignore dashboard warning lights, but these alerts are critical. Delaying diagnostics can turn small issues into major repairs. Similarly, consistently driving with low fuel can overheat and damage the fuel pump, as gasoline also acts as a coolant.
Hitting potholes or speed bumps too fast risks damage to your suspension and undercarriage. Manual transmission drivers should avoid riding the clutch or resting a hand on the gear shifter, as both cause premature wear on key components. Unnecessary revving adds engine strain with no benefit.
Skipping regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, leads to avoidable breakdowns. Aggressive driving habits, such as hard starts and stops, wear down the engine and braking system. Using low-grade fuel in a premium-required engine can result in knocking and long-term damage.
Idling excessively wastes fuel, contributes to carbon buildup, and harms the environment. Lastly, incorrect tire pressure affects tire wear, fuel efficiency, and suspension health.
By avoiding these habits and maintaining your vehicle regularly, you’ll enjoy a smoother ride, lower repair costs, and a car that lasts longer.
Motor Biscuit
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