Five Bad Driving Habits Ruining Vehicles

Motorists have been warned to quit five bad driving habits that could ruin their vehicles. Experts have named the common mistakes drivers make that cause further damage to their cars.

Attaching heavy keyrings and decorations to a set of car keys puts a lot of pressure and weight on the ignition, which could cause it to stop working.

Drivers who ride the clutch instead of taking their foot off may need more regular maintenance, which can lead to excessive wear.

Keeping hands resting on the gearstick can cause problems with the gearbox, which could cause the car to start shaking or jerking while in motion.

Jake Smith, director of Absolute Reg, said: “There are several bad driving habits that motorists would’ve picked up over the years and some that even new drivers can be guilty of.

“Anyone with heavy keys or decorations on their car keys should take them off, as the pressure on the ignition could damage the engine’s delicate components.

“Resting on the gearstick or riding the clutch are two bad habits drivers should kick. Otherwise, they risk damaging their vehicles without even realising it.

“Drivers should never ignore warning lights on their dashboard and brush up on their knowledge of their meanings, as serious problems could occur.

“Another bad habit motorists should stop is driving over potholes – when it is safe to do so, you should drive over the potholes on the road; otherwise, your wheels, tyres and underneath your car could become damaged.”

Here Are the Five Ways Drivers Are Damaging Their Vehicles Without Realising:

1. Heavy Car Keys Ruining the Ignition

Attaching many decorative keyrings to the set of car keys could cause the ignition to stop functioning. The constant downward pressure from heavy keys on the vehicle can damage the delicate components of the ignition, causing further problems with the engine and potentially failing to start the car again.

2. Resting on the Gearstick

Keeping your hand on the stick can cause unnecessary damage to the gearbox, which can cause the vehicle to stop working efficiently. Issues with gears could also cause cars to shake or jerk while driving.

3. Riding the Clutch

Drivers should kick any bad habits of keeping their foot on the clutch after changing gears. This is called riding the clutch, which will likely lead to excessive wear, which means it’ll need repair more often.

4. Driving Over Potholes

It’s best to swerve around potholes when it is safe rather than drive straight over them. Potholes can damage the underneath of the vehicle if driven over at speed, as well as scraped wheels and cuts to the tyre.

5. Ignoring Dashboard Lights

Ignoring warning lights on the dashboard might be tempting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with their meaning. However, any lights should be investigated immediately if a more significant problem arises.