Every driver knows that taking care of their vehicle is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Here are the top 10 car care hacks that every driver should be aware of to keep their car in top shape:

1. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated: Regularly check your tire pressure to enhance fuel efficiency and ensure safety. A well-inflated tire can improve your fuel economy by up to 3%! For more information on tire maintenance, visit Edmunds.
2. Use Toothpaste for Headlight Restoration: Dull headlights can significantly reduce visibility, but a simple mix of toothpaste and water can restore them to their former brightness. This is a quick and inexpensive fix!

3. Optimize Your Fuel Economy: Utilize apps such as GasBuddy to find the lowest gas prices and monitor your driving habits to save fuel. Regularly changing your air filter can also increase your fuel efficiency by up to 10%!

4. Keep a Scheduled Maintenance Log: Regular maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs. Maintain a logbook or use apps like Autoblog to track when your oil changes and services are due.
5. DIY Car Cleaning Solutions: Instead of expensive cleaners, use vinegar and baking soda to make effective and eco-friendly car cleaning solutions. They can be used to clean glass, upholstery, and even remove stubborn stains!

Maintaining your vehicle's performance is crucial for both safety and longevity. One of the most essential tips is to regularly check your engine oil. Oil lubricates your engine, helping it run smoothly and efficiently. Over time, oil can degrade, leading to increased friction and wear. It's recommended to check your oil at least once a month and change it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. For more detailed guidelines, visit Edmunds.

Another tip for maintaining your vehicle's performance is to keep your tires properly inflated and aligned. Under-inflated tires can cause poor fuel efficiency and premature wear. Additionally, misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear and affect your vehicle's handling. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure monthly and have your alignment checked at least once a year. Learn more about tire maintenance at Consumer Reports.

When it comes to car maintenance, many drivers fall victim to common myths that can lead to costly repairs or even safety issues. For instance, a prevalent belief is that using premium fuel automatically improves performance for all vehicles. However, that’s not true for most cars, especially those not designed for higher octane fuel. In fact, the Consumer Reports indicates that using premium fuel in vehicles that only require regular unleaded provides no benefit, emphasizing that manufacturers design vehicles to run optimally on the fuel type specified in the owner's manual.

Another myth is that routinely topping off your gas tank actually prevents rust and damage to your fuel system. While many believe that keeping their tank full is a good practice, this can lead to vapor lock and other complications. According to the Edmunds, when you fill your tank continuously, you're exposing your vehicle to unnecessary wear and tear. It's essential to understand the risks associated with such oversights and to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for optimal health and longevity of your vehicle.