Car Myths Debunked: 29 Facts and Fiction of Popular Automotive Beliefs

This article was originally published on absolutelyconnected.com and has been republished here with permission.

Cars come in all different shapes and sizes and run on all different sorts of fuel and electricity depending on the type you buy. With so many different car brands and makes to choose from, potential buyers can find pretty much anything they want. Some cars have cool perks, like clear plastic roofs or the ability to park themselves. However, there are some myths that have arisen over the years that need to be debunked. These myths have been created by car companies to increase sales, or simply not understanding how policies work. They have also stemmed from people being unsure of how the different parts of their car’s engine work

Like the Discovery Channel show Mythbusters, we’re ready to examine some of the most well-known myths about cars. Some of these you might already know, but others might be totally new. Fact-checking is one of the most important things a person can do, especially when it comes to keeping your beloved vehicle in tip-top condition. Start scrolling to find out all about these myths, and learn about your vehicle in the process. Maybe you have some of your own myths to share.

Perform an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles

Anyone who spends time maintaining their vehicles knows that regular oil changes are necessary. A few decades ago, it was normal to change the oil for every 3,000 miles driven, but with newer technologies being used, this old rule is just that – old.

Depending on the year your car was manufactured and the brand, it’s likely the oil only needs to be changed every 7,500 miles. This can save a few dollars, which is great as well.

SUVs Are Safer Than Small Cars

It has long been believed that an SUV offers better protection in an accident than a small car because its bigger frame is more protective. While this is true to a certain extent, SUVs have a higher chance of rolling in sharp turns or during a crash.

This is due to an SUV’s center of gravity; cars have a lower one, which means they have less of a tendency to roll. Both vehicles provide protection, it simply depends on the accident which one will protect you more.

Korean Cars Suck

In the past, Korean made vehicles were not considered to be the best of quality. This is definitely not true now. Many brands that come out of Korea are affordable, built to last, and very sleek looking.

In fact, some of the brands tend to fare better in dependability studies when compared to American brands. Always research the vehicle you are planning to buy, as there are some excellent brands from all over the world.

Red Cars are More Expensive to Insure

Lots of drivers love to purchase flashy sports cars in vibrant shades like red and yellow. For years now, there has been a common misconception regarding red cars and the cost of insurance.

The color of a car does not factor into the insurance rate, even though many people believe that red cars cost more. What does matter is the driver’s record and the model of the car.