I’m a car expert – here are three car ‘hacks’ that could cost you THOUSANDS

CAR experts have warned against viral car ‘hacks’ that could end up costing drivers thousands.

The popular trends on TikTok might seem like a good idea, but there are some that you should definitely give the swerve.

3

3

Experts at Motorfinity are offering advice to motorists on which viral motor trends are worth doing, and the ones to avoid, reports the Knutsford Guardian.

Three TikTok car hacks to steer clear of according to the experts are:

DIY dent removal

There are hundreds of car dent removal videos doing the rounds on the popular app, using everything from glue sticks to hot water to remove the damage.

One video shows the user attempting to fix their dented car using a plunger with some reporting that this had fixed the problem.

However, the experts warn that it is possible to pull the dent out too much, causing even more damage to the car.

They added that paying a professional to do it could cost anywhere between £60 to £810, depending on the severity.

Viral foam jet wash

Another popular hack shows many people jet-washing their cars using washing-up liquid.

Experts say that this could actually erode the wax on the motor, making it more susceptible to dirt and damage, which can lead to rust.

Using magic erasers to get rid of bodywork scuffs

Magic erasers have taken TikTok by storm as many have recommended them for getting rid of scuffs and scratches on bodywork.

However, these are made from melamine foam and have the abrasiveness of 3,000 to 5,000 grit sandpaper, so if you scrub hard enough you can actually make any scuffs worse.

Motorfinity CEO, Daniel Briggs said of these hacks: “Some of the car hacks out there can look very straightforward and harmless.

“You see someone perform the simple task on a one-minute video and it can be easy to think you’ll get the same results whilst saving money.

“With the cost of petrol remaining high, it can be tempting to opt for what seems a quick win, but I’d urge all drivers to think twice.

“Especially if it involves bringing new materials or chemicals onto or into the car that have been manufactured for that use.

“It could mean a trip to the garage and a bigger bill to pay in the long run.”

However, it is not all bad news for people who love discovering a new hack.

There are some TikTok car trends that could save you time and money.

Here are some of the hacks recommended by the experts:

Use a towel to stop the windscreen from icing over

There is nothing more frustrating on a morning than having to de-ice your car windscreen, especially if you are in a rush.

Using a large towel and placing it over your windscreen (securing it with the window wipers) is a great way to stop it from freezing over.

And could give you that much needed extra 15 minutes in bed.

Put socks on your windscreen wipers

The neighbours might think you are a bit strange, but this is a similar technique that can ensure your windscreen wipers don’t freeze over, preventing damage over time.

Cleaning the inside of your car with carpet stain remover

Give your interior a makeover and save some money on a valet with this useful hack.

To use carpet stain remover on any stains on your car seat or interior, use a brush to gently scrub before leaving it to dry.

3