There are a lot of things in life that we can’t control. The weather, other people’s actions, and the ever-changing stock market are just a few examples. But there is one thing we can always have power over – our own spending habits.
If you’re looking for ways to save money on car maintenance and unexpected repairs, you’ve come to the right place. By following these 10 simple tips, you’ll be able to keep your car running smoothly – and your wallet intact.
1. Own A Reliable Car
The first and most important step to saving money on car maintenance and repairs is to own a reliable car. A dependable vehicle will not only last longer but will also require fewer repairs over time. It’s as simple as that. When shopping for your next car, do your research to find a model that comes with a good reputation for reliability. Don’t follow the trends and don’t buy vehicles from scrap yards and you will save a long of money in the long run.
2. Learn How To Do Basic Stuff
You don’t have to be a certified mechanic to perform basic maintenance tasks on your car. Things like changing the oil, checking the tire pressure, and cleaning the air filter are all relatively simple and can save you a lot of money if you do them yourself instead of taking your car to the shop. So, keep a diary of basic maintenance tasks so you can stay on top of things at all times and we guarantee you – you won’t have to visit a mechanic any more than you’ll have to visit your in-laws.
3. Better Safe Than Sorry
One of the best ways to save money on car repairs is to prevent problems before they start. This means being proactive about maintaining your car and catching issues early before they become big and expensive problems. Make sure you keep up with scheduled maintenance like oil changes and tune-ups and don’t hesitate to take your car in for a check-up if something doesn’t seem right. If you hear strange noises or see fluid leaks, don’t ignore them! The sooner you catch these things, the less expensive they’ll be to fix.
4. Used Auto Parts Can Go A Long Way
If your car does need a repair – see if you can use a used or recycled part instead of buying a new one. This can be a great way to save money. There are plenty of reputable sources for used auto parts these days. Just off to the top of our head, https://www.usedpart.us/ seems like one.
Just make sure you do your research to make sure the part is compatible with your car. The quality should be guaranteed by the used parts shop.
5. Wisely Choose Your Mechanic
Not all mechanics are created equal. If you’re not careful, you could end up overpaying for simple repairs or getting ripped off entirely. Some of these guys will charge an arm and a leg and will try and get you to sign off on repairs that you don’t even need. Do your homework ahead of time and find a reputable, certified mechanic that you can trust. Or, ask your friends and family for a recommendation. There must be a reputable mechanic in your area, so when you find them – stick with them for all of your car’s needs.
6. Drive Carefully
One of the best ways to avoid costly repairs is to drive carefully and avoid accidents. This might seem like common sense, but it’s important to remember that even a small fender bender can cause major damage to your car. So take it easy on the roads, and be extra cautious in bad weather or when driving in unfamiliar territory. If you slip up even for a second, it could end up costing you a lot of money in repairs.
7. Keep Your Car In A Garage
If you have the space, keeping your car in a garage can extend its life and save you money on repairs down the road. A garage will protect your car from the elements and help keep it clean, which can prevent rust and other damage. Just remember to take it out for a spin every once in a while. A car you don’t drive is as good as a car that’s left out in the rain.
8. Obey The Law
This one might seem obvious, but obeying the law is actually a great way to save money. Speeding tickets and other traffic violations can add up over time, and they can also lead to accidents that could seriously damage your car. And sure, this is not a “car maintenance tip”, but if you think about it, if you obey the rules, you’ll maintain your health and your wallet. So, as far as we’re concerned – this is a great tip.
9. Make The Most Out Of Your Warranty
If your car is still under warranty, be sure to take advantage of it. Many manufacturers’ warranties will cover even major repairs, so it’s worth checking to see if your car is eligible. Even if you have to pay a deductible, it’s likely to be cheaper than paying for the repair out of pocket. We generally wouldn’t advise you to get a new car (for obvious money-saving reasons), but if you already have one – make the most out of your warranty.
10. Don’t Lend Your Car To Others
This one might be tough if you’re a generous person, but lending your car to friends or family members can be a recipe for disaster. Not only are you at risk of them causing damage, but you could also be held liable if they get into an accident. It’s just not worth the risk, so it’s best to keep your car to yourself. You might come off as rude and stingy, but it’s best if you don’t lend your car. If they need the wheels, offer to drive them. That’s a decent alternative in our book.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can save a lot of money on car maintenance and repairs over time. Just remember to be proactive about taking care of your car, and you’ll watch those dollar bills remain in your wallet for a very long time. They’ll come in handy once you decide to buy yourself a new car. Cheers!