7 Common Vehicle Maintenance Myths That Could Be Costing Vermont Drivers Money
💸 Could These Car Myths Be Draining Your Wallet in Vermont?
Car maintenance is expensive enough without following bad advice. Unfortunately, some long-standing "rules of thumb" actually cause drivers around Barre and Montpelier to spend more money-or possibly risk voiding their warranty by not taking some simple steps.
Here in Vermont, our vehicles face extra stress from dirt roads, potholes, winter salt, steep hills, and sub-zero mornings. That makes separating fact from myth even more important.
Let's uncover the 7 most common vehicle maintenance myths we hear from customers in our service department-and the truth that can help you save money and keep your car running longer.
🛢 Myth 1: Oil Changes Every 3,000 Miles
Many people still believe you need an oil change every 3,000 miles. While this was true years ago, today's vehicles and synthetic oils are built to last longer. Most Vermont drivers should expect to change oil about every 5,000 miles under severe conditions, or when the oil life monitor in your car indicates service is due. Thanks to improvements in engine and oil technology, many modern cars can now go 5,000 to 10,000 miles between oil changes. Be sure to check your owner's manual for the recommended interval for your specific vehicle and driving conditions or pay attention to the oil change warnings should your vehicle provide them. We've seen vehicles go 10,000 miles or more before the warning light comes on.
Here's the catch: Vermont drivers often do fall under "severe service"-short trips, temperature extremes, dirt roads. So don't stretch it too far!
🔄 Myth 2: Tire Rotations Aren't Necessary
Skipping tire rotations may feel like no big deal, but it leads to uneven wear and shorter tire life. Vermont roads-think potholes, frost heaves, and gravel-make regular rotations essential.
Plan for a tire rotation every 5,000-6,000 miles-pairing it with oil changes for most people is a smart way to stay on track. Even wear from rotation maximizes tread life, ensuring you get the most miles from your tires and delaying the need to buy a new set.
❄️ Myth 3: You Need to "Winter-ize" or "Summer-ize" Your Car
Years ago, drivers swapped fluids and oils seasonally. Today's multi-grade oils and modern fluids are designed for year-round use.
Instead of buying into seasonal "packages," focus on routine inspections:
Battery health
Belts and hoses
Fluid levels
Tire tread
At Central Vermont Auto Mart, we provide free multipoint inspections during regular maintenance visits-so you'll know your vehicle is ready whether it's -10° in Montpelier or 85° in Barre.
⛽ Myth 4: Premium Fuel Boosts Performance in Every Car
Unless your car's manufacturer specifically calls for premium, you're throwing money away. Higher octane fuel won't clean your engine or improve power in vehicles designed for regular.
Vermonters can save hundreds of dollars a year by sticking with the fuel your car actually requires.
❄️ Myth 5: You Must Warm Up Your Car for 10 Minutes in the Winter
We get it-it's tempting to let the car run while you finish your coffee. But the truth is, 30 seconds to a minute is enough for oil circulation. In extreme cold weather with heavy frost on your vehicle's windshield, you may need to run the engine a little longer to defrost the windows and ensure safe driving.
Prolonged idling, when not necessary for heating and defrosting, wastes gas and can cause carbon buildup. Instead, just take it easy until the engine reaches full temperature. Your wallet and your engine will thank you.
🧼 Myth 6: Dish Soap is Fine for Washing Your Car
Yes, we actually have had customers tell our reconditioning technicians that they use dish soap to wash their vehicle. Dish soap is great at cutting through grease, but it's too harsh for your car's paint. It removes the protective wax, leaving your finish vulnerable to Vermont's salt and road grime.
Always use automotive-specific soap and consider waxing your vehicle a couple times a year. It helps preserve your car's shine and shields it from rust and dulling paint.
📑 Myth 7: All Maintenance Must Be Done at the Dealership to Keep Your Warranty
This one can cost drivers big money! The truth is, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects your right to choose where to service your vehicle. As long as maintenance is done to factory specifications and properly documented, your warranty remains valid.
At Central Vermont Auto Mart, we provide factory-spec maintenance and retain electronic service records, so you can save money with service specials like our "VIP Oil Change Club" you can join for free and keep peace of mind, knowing we have your back.
🧮 Add It All Up
When you add it all up, believing old-school maintenance myths can cost you more money than you realize. From unnecessary oil changes to wasted fuel, Vermont drivers around Barre and Montpelier deserve the right information to keep their cars reliable and their wallets full.
By knowing the facts, you'll save money, avoid costly repairs, and extend the life of your vehicle-no matter how tough Vermont driving conditions get.
Looking for honest, reliable auto service in Montpelier or Barre, VT? Central Vermont Auto Mart's certified technicians are here to help with oil changes, tire rotations, inspections, and more.
Schedule your service appointment today and let us keep your car in top shape!
Published September 13, 2025
