Separating Car Myths from Reality
If you're a car owner, you've probably heard all kinds of advice about maintenance, safety, and performance. But much of it is outdated or just plain wrong. As vehicles and technology evolve, so should the information we rely on.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we’re here to help you separate fact from fiction.
Why Car Myths Matter
Outdated or incorrect car advice can:
- Lead to unnecessary repairs
- Reduce your vehicle’s performance
- Increase long-term costs
- Create avoidable safety risks
For example, a recent study of 15,000 vehicles from 2023 and earlier showed that EV battery replacements due to failure were extremely rare—just 2.5%, excluding recalls. That challenges one of the most common myths about EVs.
Trust the Right Sources
Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is the most reliable guide for maintenance. Certified technicians and trusted dealerships, like Easterns Automotive Group, can help you avoid costly mistakes based on bad advice.
We often see customers who followed misinformation — and paid for it later.
How Misinformation Spreads
Car myths spread through:
- Social media posts
- Outdated online content
- Well-meaning friends and family
Some common myths include:
- You should warm up your engine for a long time in winter
- EVs aren’t good for road trips
- Using your phone at the gas pump is dangerous
These myths might seem harmless but can lead to poor decisions that affect your safety, budget, and vehicle lifespan.
Stay Informed. Drive Smart.
Stick to accurate, expert-backed information. At Easterns, we’re here to help you protect your investment and stay safe on the road.
Have questions? Call 240-200-5256 or visit one of our locations.
How Car Misinformation Spreads and Why It Matters
Car myths often spread through social media, outdated articles, or well-meaning friends and family. These misconceptions can lead to poor maintenance choices, unnecessary expenses, and even safety risks.
Some of the most common myths include:
- Engines need long warm-ups in winter
- EVs can’t handle long road trips
- Cell phones are dangerous at gas pumps
Misinformation like this affects more than just convenience — it can impact your wallet, your safety, and your car’s longevity. At Easterns Automotive Group, we want to help set the record straight.
Common Car Myths, Debunked
Myth: Bigger Cars Are Always Safer
Size helps, but it’s not everything. Modern safety features and smart engineering matter more. Some small cars like the Nissan LEAF and VW Golf have excellent crash safety records.
Myth: Premium Gas Improves All Cars
If your car doesn’t require premium fuel, using it won’t boost performance or efficiency. Only high-performance engines benefit from higher octane fuel.
Myth: You Must Warm Up Your Car in Winter
Modern engines are lubricated within 30 seconds. Prolonged idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. It’s better to drive gently for the first few minutes.
Myth: EVs Can’t Handle Road Trips
Most new EVs offer 200+ miles per charge, with growing access to fast-charging stations. Many can regain significant range in 30 minutes — enough for most rest stops.
Myth: AWD Works in All Conditions
AWD helps with traction but won’t improve braking or turning on slick roads. It also comes with higher costs. Proper tires and safe driving matter just as much.
Myth: You Can Jump-Start an EV Battery
EVs have two batteries. You can only jump-start the 12-volt accessory battery, not the high-voltage one that powers the vehicle.
Myth: Cell Phones Cause Fires at Gas Stations
There’s no evidence supporting this. The warning signs are meant to prevent distractions, not explosions. Use common sense around fuel, but your phone isn’t the problem.
Trust Easterns Automotive for the Facts
Understanding the truth behind car myths helps you make smarter, safer decisions. Always consult your owner’s manual and rely on certified automotive professionals for advice.
Easterns Automotive Group offers expert support and a wide selection of reliable pre-owned vehicles. Visit one of our 11 locations in Maryland or Virginia, or call us at 240-200-5256 to learn more.