Experts have warned UK drivers over a number of viral TikTok car hacks that could damage your vehicle and cost you thousands to undo.
With billions of views for car life hacks on the popular short-form video app, many may be at risk of following bad advice.
This is why the experts over at Motorfinity, have highlighted some of the TikTok trends that are worth doing, and the ones to avoid.
With all this said, here are the TikTok car hacks to stay away from.
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Experts warn against viral TikTok car hacks that could cost you thousands
Three TikTok car hacks have been warned against by the experts:
1. DIY dent removal
There are hundreds of car dent removal TikTok videos with some choosing to use glue sticks and 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 for those not so lucky, the dent could be pulled out too much, causing 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.
2. Viral foam jet wash
Many people are jet-washing their cars using washing-up liquid with experts saying that this could actually erode the wax on the motor, making it more susceptible to dirt and damage, which can lead to rust.
3. 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 cars.
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.”
The TikTok car trends that could actually save you time and money
Here are some of the hacks recommended by experts:
1. Use a towel to stop the windscreen from icing over
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 an extra 15 minutes in bed.
2. Put socks on your windscreen wipers
This is a similar technique that can ensure your windscreen wipers don't freeze over, preventing damage over time.
3. Cleaning the inside of your car with carpet stain remover
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.
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