Myth: A dealership must perform regular maintenance to keep your car's factory warranty valid.
Reality: Not true, as long as the maintenance items specified in the vehicle owner's manual are performed on schedule. you can even do the work yourself if you have the know-how and tools to do the work or the work can be done at any auto-repair shop. Just keep accurate records and receipts to back you up in case of a warranty dispute on a future repair.
Myth: After a jump-start, your car will soon recharge the battery.
Reality: It could take hours of driving to restore a battery's full charge, especially in the winter.
That's because power accessories, such as heated seats, ipods and GPS units, draw so much electricity that in some cars the alternator has little left over to recharge a run-down battery. A "load test" at a service station can determine whether the battery can still hold a charge. If so, some hours on a battery charger might be needed to revive the battery to its full potential.
Myth: Dishwashing and laundry detergents make a good car wash.
Reality: Most detergents can strip off a car's wax finish. Instead, you should use a car-wash liquid, which is formulated to clean without removing wax.
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