Save money on automotive expenses

You can save big money on your car expenses if you follow a few steps.  Maintaining a car can become a very expensive task, both in the short run and long run.  With inflation and gas prices skyrocketing, it becomes harder to make ends meet.  The more cost saving measures you put into place, the more money you’ll save in the long run of your vehicle.  How much you save will vary depending on your personal situation. 

Drive your car longer - try to keep your car for more than 5 years and you will save a significant amount of money.  One of the biggest expenses associated with cars is having to buy a new vehicle.  By keeping your current car running a few years longer, you can save you thousands of dollars each year.

To keep your car running longer, you will want to make sure you maintain your car.  Keep up with oil changes every 3000 miles.  Keep your fluid levels topped off.  Low battery water, auto transmission fluid, coolant and brake and clutch fluid may cause damage to your engine over time.  Check your fluids regularly and you’ll save hundreds on unnecessary repairs.   Also, make sure to rotate and balance your tires regularly to avoid uneven wearing that can cause you to have to replace tires earlier then projected.

You should find a mechanic before you need repairs.  Ask for recommendations from your family and friends to find a reputable maintenance shop so you’re not scrambling when you have a vehicle emergency.  Just make sure that the shop will honor your vehicle’s extended warranty if you have one.

You will want to pay attention when you are driving to save money on gas.  Use your gas sparingly!  Make sure you turn off your engine when your car is idle for long periods of time.  If you are driving a manual car, try leaving it in neutral when going down a hill  - as long as you have plenty of room between your car and the one in front.  One of the biggest ways to conserve gas is to watch your speed.  Every time you rev up the engine, your gas consumption increases dramatically.  If you have the habit of passing every car on the road and drive over the speed limit, you are using up a lot of gas.  Try slowing down to the speed limit and you will be amazed how much further a tank of gas will last!

Always shop around for the least expensive gas in your area.  Combine your errands into one area so that you aren’t making multiple trips out multiple days. 

Another way to save on the overall expense of your vehicle is to shop around when you need accessories for your car.  Look for bargains when you know you are in need of new wind shield washer blades, a new battery or new mats.  Automotive shops often have sales or specials - so watch the weekly flyers when you know you will need items soon. 

Following some of these suggestions will help cut down on your automotive expenses.  You can use the extra money to put towards your bills or build up your savings.  In this economy, every penny counts - follow these steps and you’ll have more money in your wallet.