Signed: Every mechanic who’s ever been blamed for a problem they didn’t cause.
We get it. There’s a lot of car advice flying around—from your uncle, your barber, and that guy in your street who’s “owned over 20 cars.” But as mechanics, let’s clear the air: some of what you believe about cars is just plain wrong.
Here are five myths that drive us crazy (and might be draining your wallet too):
1. “If It’s Not Making Noise, It’s Fine”
Mechanics everywhere scream in silence.
Not all car problems come with warning sounds. Some sneak up quietly, like a leaking radiator or worn brake pads. By the time your car does start sounding like a generator, it’s already too late.
What to do instead: Check your fluids, monitor your dashboard lights, and don’t skip maintenance just because your car is quiet.
2. “Premium Fuel Will Make My Car Faster”
Unless you’re driving a turbocharged sports car, no it won’t. You’re just pouring extra naira into your tank for no reason.
Mechanic’s truth: If your owner’s manual says regular petrol is fine, use regular. Premium doesn’t clean your engine, boost horsepower, or make you James Bond.
3. “You Need to Warm Up Your Car for 10 Minutes Every Morning”
This myth is from the Stone Age. Modern cars warm up in seconds, not ten minutes.
The real deal: Unless it’s freezing outside (which is rare in Nigeria), just wait 30–60 seconds and drive gently for the first few minutes. Idling wastes fuel and carbon-coats your engine.
4. “All Mechanics Are Trying to Cheat Me”
Okay… we get why you might think that. Some bad eggs spoil the reputation. But most of us just want your car to survive Nigerian roads without falling apart.
Pro tip: Instead of coming in angry, build a relationship with a trusted mechanic. Ask questions. Learn your service schedule. It’ll save both of us headaches.
5. “I Can Use Water Instead of Coolant”
Mechanic voice: Please. Stop. Doing. This.
Water might keep your engine cool today, but over time it causes rust, scale, and even blown gaskets. Coolant is cheap compared to an engine rebuild.
What you’re risking: ₦100,000+ in repairs because you wanted to save ₦2,000. Not worth it.
Bonus: “The Check Engine Light is Just There for Decoration”
It’s not. It’s literally your car begging you for help. Don’t wait until the engine says “Goodbye forever.”
Final Word from the Workshop:
We’re not magicians—we’re mechanics. We love cars. We want yours to last. So please… for the love of gear oil, stop believing everything you hear at the barbershop.
