# 6 WD-40 Myths Gearheads Need To Stop Believing

> WD-40's real uses and myths debunked for gearheads.
- Title: 6 WD-40 Myths Gearheads Need To Stop Believing · Jalopnik
- Summary: WD-40's real uses and myths debunked for gearheads. WD-40's multi-use product works for short-term lubrication but not long-term fixes, and WD-50 is a myth.
- Keywords: wd-40, car maintenance, lubricants, myths, gearheads, screw, bike chains, arthritis, fishing, wd-50, cars, culture
- Source: Jalopnik — https://jalopnik.com/2291968/wd-40-myths-to-stop-believing
- Author: Charles Krome
- Published: 2026-10-24T22:25:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: wd-40, car maintenance, lubricants, myths, gearheads, screw, bike chains, arthritis, fishing, wd-50, cars, culture
## WD-40's Origin Story
WD-40 was created by Rocket Chemical Company in 1953 after 40 trials.
## Myth 1: Car Lubrication
WD-40 doesn't lubricate car parts long-term; it evaporates quickly.
## Myth 2: Arthritis Relief
WD-40 contains petroleum distillates that cause skin inflammation and dermatitis.
## Myth 3: Fishing Aid
WD-40 doesn't contain fish oil and won't attract fish.
## Myth 4: Bike Chain Lubrication
WD-40 can be used on bike chains but needs cleaning before riding.
## Myth 5: Screw-Related Pleasure
WD-40 ads claim to make screwing a pleasure but are fake.
## Myth 6: WD-50 Exists
WD-50 is a meme, not a real product.
## WD-40's Real Uses
WD-40 works for short-term lubrication but not long-term fixes.
## Why WD-40 Matters
WD-40's multi-use product is a temporary fix for many car issues.
## Key takeaway

WD-40's multi-use product works for short-term lubrication but not long-term fixes, and WD-50 is a myth.