A Quick Look At The Biggest Assumptions Auto Owners Make About European Cars

Whether you own a compact car, pickup truck, SUV, or other type of vehicle, getting to know your way around the vehicle and its engine at least to some degree is an important thing to do. Proper maintenance is only achievable if you are at least somewhat educated about how your car operates and what it needs. Unfortunately, when it comes to European car models, a lot of drivers have some misguided assumptions that get in the way of them properly learning about or even maintaining their vehicle. Here is a look at a few of the biggest assumptions auto owners tend to have about European vehicles and the truths you need to know. 

Assumption: All European car engines are made pretty much the same as regular engines.

Fact: It is true that most engines function by basically the same concepts with similar components, but there can actually be great differences between the engine of a European vehicle and a domestic one.You have to take into consideration that many parts are manufactured for these engines in European locations, which means they can look different, perform different, and require different maintenance rules. 

Assumption: Any mechanic can work on a European car. 

Fact: This is totally false. Some mechanics actually refuse to do any type of work on European cars, especially some of the more luxury, high-end models. This is because the engines and the way they function can be so different, the mechanic does not feel comfortable enough in their experience level to perform the work. There are, however, mechanics who specifically specialize in European vehicles. It is a good idea to get a recommendation from the dealership when you invest in a European car as to what mechanics locally are well qualified to perform maintenance work on your specific vehicle model. 

Assumption: The primary difference between maintaining a European car and a domestic one is the price of parts.

Fact: It is true that there can be a big difference in the pricing of parts between a European and domestic vehicle, but the differences between the two can be far greater. The parts are often higher for two reasons. One, the parts are not always as readily available in the US. Two, the parts are made to a higher standard of quality, often times having more expensive components. Therefore, even though the price is a differentiating factor in maintaining a European car, it is not without reason.

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