Regular vehicle maintenance: There’s nothing exciting about it, but it could help save you plenty of pain and expense down the road.

Just make sure you’re maintaining your car correctly. AAA survey data shows that some consumers may believe the following vehicle maintenance myths:

OIL CHANGES – 45% believe their oil should be changed every 3,000 miles. MYTH!

Most engine oil today contains lubricants and other additives that extend the life of the oil. If your car was manufactured in the past 15 years, oil changes are recommended at intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for when to change your oil.

BATTERY LIFE – 42% believe a car battery lasts 5 years. MYTH!

Typically, a car battery lasts between 3-5 years and sometimes longer. Batteries gradually deteriorate until they can no longer provide enough power to start an engine.

If your battery is approaching the three-year mark, the only way to know for sure is to get it tested.

VEHICLE WARRANTIES – 31% believe that in order to maintain a vehicle warranty, all service must be performed at the dealer. MYTH!

Consumers can get regular maintenance and repairs at any facility of their choice. Remember to document any work done by a facility other than the dealer or manufacturer to maintain the warranty.

BRAKE FLUID – 19% believe that brake fluid doesn’t need to be changed. MYTH!

The brakes are the most important safety system on a vehicle. Most manufacturers recommend replacing brake fluid at two- or three-year intervals.

When it comes to finding a trusted repair shop, 21 percent of consumers say they don’t have a repair shop they trust, but AAA makes it easy to find one.

With 7,000 facilities located across North America, finding a nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair Shop is simple. Visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to find your preferred location.

AAA Approved Auto Repair