9 Things You Never Knew Were Bad for Your Car (Until It’s Too Late)
Most drivers know to avoid big mistakes like skipping oil changes or ignoring weird engine noises. But it’s the smaller, everyday habits—the ones that don’t seem like a big deal—that often do the most damage over time. By the time you realize the harm, your wallet might already be in serious trouble. Protecting your car isn’t just about being careful on the road—it’s about being smart off the road, too. Here are nine things you might be doing that secretly wreck your car long before you realize it.
1. Resting Your Hand on the Gear Shifter
It feels natural to rest your hand on the gear shifter while cruising, but it’s quietly hurting your transmission. The constant pressure can cause unnecessary wear on internal components over time. Manual transmissions are particularly vulnerable to this kind of damage. Even in automatics, resting your hand there can promote bad driving habits that wear out parts faster. Keep your hands on the wheel where they belong—and save yourself from expensive transmission repairs.
2. Overloading Your Car
You might not think twice about piling your car full of luggage, groceries, or heavy equipment. But carrying too much weight puts extra strain on your brakes, suspension, and tires. It can even lead to faster wear on your engine and transmission if done regularly. Overloading also affects your car’s balance, making accidents more likely. Always check your car’s recommended weight limits to avoid unnecessary damage.
3. Driving with Low Fuel
Running on fumes isn’t just stressful—it’s terrible for your fuel pump. Your fuel pump relies on gasoline for cooling and lubrication, and driving on low fuel makes it work harder and hotter. Over time, this can lead to pump failure, one of the more costly repairs you can face. Regularly filling up when you hit a quarter tank can extend your fuel system’s life significantly. Don’t treat your gas tank like a game of chicken—your car will lose.
4. Ignoring Dashboard Warning Lights
It’s easy to brush off that blinking check engine light, especially if your car seems to drive fine. But those warnings are there for a reason, and ignoring them often turns small problems into major repairs. Sensors can alert you to early issues with everything from your brakes to your transmission. Taking your car in early usually means cheaper, faster fixes. Waiting until it’s “really bad” often comes with a painful price tag.
5. Slamming Into Potholes
Potholes aren’t just uncomfortable—they’re car killers. Hitting a pothole hard can damage your suspension, alignment, tires, and even your exhaust system. Worse yet, small pothole damage can snowball into much larger, costlier problems if not addressed. Slow down when driving on rough roads, and steer around potholes whenever it’s safe to do so. Your suspension (and your wallet) will thank you later.
6. Riding the Brakes Downhill
Keeping your foot on the brake all the way down a hill might feel safer, but it’s brutal on your braking system. Constant pressure overheats the brakes, causing premature wear and even brake failure in extreme cases. Instead, downshift to a lower gear if you’re driving a manual, or use engine braking in an automatic when available. Save your brakes for when you really need them, not as a constant safety blanket. Smart braking habits save money and prevent dangerous situations.
7. Neglecting Tire Pressure
Tires that are under- or over-inflated don’t just wear out faster—they make your car work harder overall. Poor tire pressure reduces fuel efficiency, strains your suspension, and affects handling, making accidents more likely. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Your car’s recommended tire pressure is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Proper tire care is one of the simplest ways to protect your car long-term.
8. Washing Your Car Incorrectly
Skipping car washes or using the wrong cleaning methods might seem harmless, but it can wreck your paint and bodywork over time. Dirt, bird droppings, and road salt eat away at your paint, exposing your car to rust and corrosion. Automatic car washes with abrasive brushes can also scratch and dull your paint. Hand-washing with gentle products protects your car’s exterior and preserves resale value. Think of regular, proper washes as part of your car’s maintenance routine, not just cosmetic upkeep.
9. Accelerating Hard When the Engine Is Cold
When you start your car and immediately floor it, you’re putting major stress on a cold engine. Oil takes time to circulate fully through the engine parts, especially in colder temperatures. Revving hard before the engine is properly lubricated leads to faster wear and tear. Letting your car idle for even 30 seconds before driving gently can dramatically extend engine life. A little patience goes a long way when it comes to cold starts.
Smart Driving Habits Can Save Your Car (and Your Wallet)
Protecting your car isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about understanding the small habits that quietly do big damage over time. Paying attention to these everyday mistakes can mean fewer repair bills, better performance, and a longer car lifespan. It’s easier (and cheaper) to prevent problems than to fix them after the fact. So treat your car with a little extra care—you’ll save yourself a fortune and enjoy a smoother ride for years to come.
Read More
Here’s Why New Cars No Longer Come With Spare Tires
Did You Know About These 5 American Cars That Were Never Available In The U.S.?
Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.