TikTok car hacks that really cause damage to your vehicle

If you’re thinking of trying that cool car hack you saw on TikTok then read this first. It could save you thousands.

TikTok has become the go-to scrolling platform for everything from viral dances, recipes to car advice.

But a recent analysis by Auto Trader found that 59 per cent of car-related videos are misleading.

Hashtag “CarTok” has amassed more than 876 million views with millions of drivers and car owners turning to TikTok for advice on cleaning, repair hacks and maintenance.

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Car washing tips on TikTok may actually damage cars.

@beewhisperer333

Coconut oil and vinegar for a faded car paint hack. All natural no chemicals and lasts months. #coconutoil#autopaint#fadedpaint#lifehack#whitevinegar

♬ original sound - Bodhibee333

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But Auto Trader’s findings suggest these “life hacks” could actually damage your car.

From scrubbing cars with mops and attaching toilet brushes to power drills, TikTok is packed with bizarre cleaning hacks.

One video promised drivers “super shine” if they used toothpaste on their headlights.

@tightwaddiy

Yes! It really works! You can clear your foggy headlights with just toothpaste and a wash cloth! #diy#autodetailing#cardetail#coeaningheadlights#hacks#cleaning#viral

♬ original sound - TightWadDIY

The content promises instant quick-fix solutions but Auto Trader found that more than 80 per cent of the cleaning hack videos could cause damage to your car.

The analysis also found that 90 per cent of car repair videos should NOT be attempted by amateurs.

One dangerous trend involves drivers attempting to fix their brakes or replace engine parts based on TikTok tutorials.

Nearly two thirds (59 per cent) of all car related TikToks contain misleading advice.

@supercarblondie.xtra

You've been using your automatic gearbox wrong 👀 #tips#hacks#tipsandtricks#cartok#carhacks#cartips#auto#gearbox#automaticgearbox#mindblown#howtotiktok#useful#usefullifetips#supercarblondie

♬ original sound - SB Xtra - SB Xtra

Auto Trader editorial director Erin Baker warned drivers against blindly trusting viral car hacks.

“TikTok is becoming one of the go-to search engines, offering inspiration and educational content from experienced creators. But drivers should be wary as many videos on TikTok are intended to shock audiences and to gain traction and engagement.” she said.

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Sometimes traditional methods are better than modern hacks.

But it’s not all bad news, the analysis found that 72 per cent of car maintenance videos are helpful, offering useful tips on checking oil levels, tyre pressure and other basic car tasks.

Additionally, 68 per cent of driving tip videos provided practical advice, especially for learner drivers.

*While these videos appear easy to follow, these tips shouldn’t be followed as it could lead to more costly damages. Drivers should consult a professional rather than trying TikTok hacks.

Originally published as TikTok car hacks that really cause damage to your vehicle