Top 10 Mistakes Beginners Make with RC Cars (And How to Avoid Them)
A Blog by Justin Carlo Ponti
RC cars are a blast. There's just something exciting about sending one flying down the driveway or around a track. But when you're new to the hobby, it's easy to make a few common mistakes that can get in the way of the fun.
Here’s a breakdown of ten things beginners often get wrong with RC cars, and some simple ways to avoid them.
1. Skipping the Manual
When you first unbox your RC car, the excitement makes it tempting to jump straight in. But the manual has a lot of useful information that can save you time and frustration. It includes setup tips, maintenance advice, and safety instructions.
Tip: Give it a quick read, even if you're just scanning for the basics. It might answer questions you didn't know you had.
2. Choosing the Wrong RC Car
Not every RC car is designed for the same kind of driving. Some are made for smooth surfaces, others are better on dirt or grass. Jumping into the hobby with the wrong type of car can lead to poor performance or early damage.
Tip: Think about where you’ll be driving most often. Look for a model that matches that surface and is suitable for beginners.
3. Ignoring Battery Types and Charging Times
RC cars use different battery types, like NiMH or LiPo. Charging them incorrectly can damage the battery or reduce its lifespan. Some beginners also forget to check if the battery and charger are included.
Tip: Learn what type of battery your car uses and follow the recommended charging instructions. Using a LiPo-safe bag is a smart idea for extra protection.
4. Driving Through Water or Wet Areas
Even if the box says the car is waterproof or water-resistant, that doesn’t mean you should drive it through puddles or wet grass. Electronics and moisture don’t go well together.
Tip: Avoid wet conditions unless your RC car is fully waterproof and rated for it. If it gets wet, dry it immediately and check for any water around the electronics.
5. Skipping Maintenance
Dirt and dust build up quickly. If you don’t clean your car or check it after each run, performance can drop, and parts can wear out faster. Proper RC maintenance is key.
Tip: After a few sessions, give the car a wipe-down, apply lubricants, etc. Check for debris, loose screws, and dirt around the wheels and suspension.
6. Losing Signal or Driving Out of Range
Every remote has a limit. If the car goes too far, it may lose signal and keep going until it crashes or stops in a hard-to-reach place.
Tip: Keep the car within a safe range and always in sight. If it starts to respond slowly, bring it closer right away.
7. Pushing Full Throttle Too Soon
Speed is fun, but going full throttle all the time can lead to crashes or wear out the motor too quickly. It’s also harder to learn proper control when you're always at max power.
Tip: Start off slow and practice basic handling. Once you're confident with steering and braking, then go for more speed.
8. Not Checking Screws or Moving Parts
Things come loose. That’s just part of the hobby. If you don’t check your car before or after a run, small issues can turn into bigger problems.
Tip: Keep a tool kit handy and check your car regularly. Make sure everything is tight and that moving parts are working smoothly.
9. Overlooking the Remote Control
A dead battery or misaligned controls can throw everything off. Beginners often forget to check the remote until there’s a problem during the drive.
Tip: Check remote batteries often and recalibrate if needed. A quick test before every session can save time and hassle.
10. Not Connecting With the Community
RC is more fun when you’re learning from others. Trying to figure everything out on your own can be slow and frustrating.
Tip: Join online groups or visit your nearest hobby shop like Hobbyco. Ask questions, share your progress, and learn from people who’ve been doing it for a while. You’ll be surprised how helpful the community can be.
Start Your RC Hobby at Hobbyco Today
There’s a learning curve with RC cars, but that’s part of what makes it fun. Take care of your gear, ask questions, and enjoy the process. Every mistake is a step closer to becoming a confident and capable driver.
Looking to get started or upgrade your setup? Explore beginner-friendly RC cars and accessories at Hobbyco, Australia’s home of hobbies since 1935.
With locations conveniently located throughout Metro Sydney, finding the perfect hobby shop near you has never been easier. Experience the excitement of exploring our vast selection of RC products, expert advice, and exceptional customer service. Discover why Hobbyco is the number one hobby shop in Australia. Customers can buy products online through our platform.
