If you are struggling trying to figure out how you can make owning a car more affordable, here are five ways that you can save on regular auto costs.
Combine Errands to Save on Gas
In many areas of the country, gas prices are continuing to rise. Because of this, many drivers are spending more on gas than they want to. However, you may be able to save some money on gas by combining errands instead of making separate trips throughout the week.
For example, rather than making a trip specifically to get groceries on the weekend, pick them up on your way home from work, school, or an appointment.
Purchase Cheap Auto Insurance
It’s not uncommon for auto insurance to be one of the biggest expenses that individuals have to pay when it comes to regular automobile costs. However, your auto insurance doesn’t have to be expensive.
With some research, you can find cheap auto insurance for your vehicle. This can save some drivers hundreds of dollars per year.
Clean Your Car Regularly
In order for your car to last as long as possible, you need to keep it clean. Wash and vacuum it every single week. Take the time to really get into all of those cracks and crevices as well.
This will help both your interior and exterior look new for as long as possible. While you’re cleaning it, inspect both the interior and exterior for any damage or maintenance issues. Don’t forget to check your tires regularly as well.
Take Care of Simple Maintenance Yourself
Many car owners can save on regular auto costs by doing basic maintenance and making simple repairs themselves rather than taking their cars to the mechanic. By making these repairs yourself, you avoid having to pay for labor.
You may even be able to find deals to get the parts cheaper than you would have gotten them at the mechanic. While car maintenance and repairs may sound intimidating, there are many tasks that any car owner can do.
Learn how to change your oil and filters and replace things like spark plugs, windshield wipers, and headlights. You can find plenty of tutorials and videos online to teach you these skills.
By keeping your car in good repair, you’re less likely to have bigger and more expensive problems crop up.
Obey Traffic Laws to Avoid Getting a Ticket
When you drive a car, you do need to obey traffic laws in order to avoid getting a ticket. While tickets are common, getting a ticket can cost a lot of money. On average, a speeding ticket costs about $150, which can set you behind in your monthly budget.
other related articles of interest:
How to Create a Dedicated Savings Account for Automotive Repairs
First Car Barely Running Anymore? 4 Steps for a More Affordable Vehicle
However, getting a ticket can cost you a lot more money even after the initial incident. Once you’ve gotten a ticket, insurers will see you as a higher risk, so they will likely raise your rates, often significantly. You could end up paying hundreds of dollars more each year in insurance costs because of a single traffic infraction.
To help keep this from happening, limit distractions while you are driving so that you won’t accidentally run a light, go over the speed limit, or fail to stop at a stop sign.
You don’t have to take the bus, walk, or bike to work or school just because you don’t think you can afford a car. While driving a car does come with added expenses, you can make it a lot more affordable by finding ways to save on regular auto costs where you can.
Image Credit: ways to save on regular auto costs by twenty20.com
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