Automotive experts have warned of viral car hacks that could cost drivers thousands of dollars
Popular TikTok trends may sound like a good idea, but there are some that you should definitely avoid.
According to the Knutsford Guardian, Motorfinity experts advise motorists on which social media scams to try and which to avoid.
Experts warn of TikTok tricks that destroy cars and cost thousands to repair |
According to experts, there are three TikTok car hacks that should be avoided:
Remove car dents yourself
Hundreds of videos of car dent removal have been circulating on the popular app, where everything from sticky sticks to hot water is used to remove the damage.
Hundreds of videos of car dent removal have been circulating on the popular app, where everything from sticky sticks to hot water is used to remove the damage.
One of the videos shows the user trying to fix his dented car with a plunger, and some have reported that this didn't work.
However, experts warn that pulling the dent too hard may cause additional damage to the vehicle.
@daaniece Fixing a little dent on my car. Whoopies #fixingdents #caraccidentcheck #cardentfix #cardent #independent #queens #queenshit #idontneednoman #fyp ♬ Loser - Sueco
They also stated that hiring a professional could cost anywhere from £60 to £810, depending on the severity.
@sokinwet better than b4 😬 #satisfying #hoopty #asmr #repair #diy #dent #boilingwater #youtube #help #beforeandafter #fyp #cvic #fypシ ♬ original sound - sokin
Wash the car with dish soap
Another known hack involves several people washing their cars with washer fluid.
According to experts, this may actually wear away the wax on the engine, making it more susceptible to dirt and damage that can lead to rust.
Use magic erasers to remove burrs from the bodywork
- Magic erasers have taken over TikTok, with many users recommending them to remove scratches and dents from car bodywork.
- However, since it is made of melamine foam and has 3000- to 5000-grit sandpaper, it can scratch the paint and make it worse if rubbed hard enough.
- "Some of the car tricks on TikTok may seem practical, easy, and harmless," said Daniel Briggs, CEO of Motorfinity, of the vulnerabilities.
- "When you see someone doing a simple task in a one-minute video, it's easy to believe you'll get the same results while saving money, and with the cost of gasoline still rising, it can be tempting to pick what appears to be a quick win."
- He continued: "I urge all drivers to think twice, especially if it involves introducing new purpose-built substances or chemicals into or into the vehicle. This can result in a trip to the garage and a bigger bill in the long run."
- However, there is some good news for those who enjoy discovering new hacks.
- Some Tik Tok car trends can help you save time and money.
Here are some expert-recommended hacks:
Towel to prevent icing on the windshield
Nothing is more annoying in the morning than having to remove the ice from your windshield, especially if you are in a hurry.
A large towel placed on the windshield (attached to the window wipers) is an excellent way to keep him from freezing and can give you an extra 15 minutes in bed.
Put socks on the wiper blades
Neighbors may think you're weird, but this is a similar technology that can prevent windshield wipers from freezing and causing damage over time.
Carpet stain remover
With a carpet stain remover, clean your car's interior, with this easy hack, you can update your interior while saving money on valet parking.