Yet, misconceptions about vehicle servicing and maintenance can put drivers, passengers, as well as other road users at risk.

To guide motorists, the National Automobile Dealer Association (NADA) is shedding light on how regular servicing and responsible car ownership keep roads safer and mobility more reliable across the country, rounding up some of the most common car-servicing myths and the truths behind them.

• Myth 1: “I don’t need to service my car once the warranty ends.”

Myth Buster: Regular servicing is essential for safety, reliability and resale value.

NADA insight: Keeping up with maintenance protects both your vehicle and your family’s safety and is far cheaper than dealing with major issues down the line as the vehicle ages.

• Myth 2: “Anyone can service my car. It’s all the same.”

Myth Buster: Modern vehicles are extremely complex and require specialised diagnostics, more like laptops on wheels than a collection of moving parts. It’s important that technicians are trained on your specific brand, model and systems to ensure safety and reliability.

NADA insight: Skilled and trained technicians help maintain your vehicle’s performance and protect your investment, keeping you safely on the road for longer.

• Myth 3: “Skipping one service won’t hurt.”

Myth Buster: Even skipping a single service can cause hidden damage and safety risks and may void warranties.

NADA insight: Regular maintenance by trained technicians helps to prevent issues before they become serious, keeping you and your loved ones safer on the road.

• Myth 4: “Tyres only need changing when they look worn.”

Myth Buster: Tyres can become unsafe long before visible wear appears.

NADA insight: Proactive tyre checks by knowledgeable professionals prevent accidents and support safe driving. Tyres not only have minimum tread requirements, but also an expiry date.

• Myth 5: “Dashboard warning lights can wait.”

Myth Buster: Ignoring alerts can turn minor issues into serious safety problems.

NADA insight: Dashboard warnings indicate critical concerns. Prompt attention from trained technicians protects you, your passengers and your vehicle.

“Consumers are understandably cost-conscious, but what we regularly see is that a neglected service can quickly turn into a safety issue. Keeping your car safe isn’t just about maintenance. It’s about protecting the people who rely on it every day. Even small oversights can have serious consequences.

“Modern vehicles are sophisticated machines and keeping them safe and reliable requires the right knowledge and experience. Through their networks, NADA members offer guidance and expertise to help drivers maintain their cars effectively, ensuring every journey is as safe and trouble-free as possible, NADA says in a statement.