While cars are convenient for work and leisure, they can also be expensive to run. Beyond the initial purchase price, you should expect to pay ongoing maintenance and repair costs. These costs can strain your budget, but there are ways to save money. Here are 14 ways your car could be costing you serious money, along with tips to cut costs:
Fuel Inefficiency
Your car’s gas mileage directly impacts how much you spend at the gas station. Aggressive driving, neglecting routine maintenance, and using the wrong oil can all worsen fuel efficiency. To keep costs down as much as possible, you should practice fuel-efficient driving habits and maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Ignoring Warning Lights
While it’s annoying to have dashboard lights pop up, especially during a long drive. However, they aren’t there simply to annoy you; they’re a warning system for potential problems. Ignoring any lights on your dashboard can lead to minor issues snowballing into expensive repairs. You should get any warning lights checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Speeding Tickets
Speeding tickets come with hefty fines, potential insurance rate hikes, and sometimes court costs. Try to slow down and obey the speed limit, and use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady pace. When driving to new areas where speed restrictions may differ, you should pay particular attention.
Unnecessary Idling
Leaving your car idling while waiting burns fuel and contributes to unnecessary wear and tear on the engine. To avoid this, turn off your engine if you’ll be stopped for over a minute. Many cars now come with auto start-stop features that can further reduce idling. Even in a short amount of time, idling burns fuel without actually going anywhere. Studies suggest that idling can use up to 2 liters of fuel per hour, adding up quickly.
Expired Registration
Driving with an expired registration can lead to fines and even vehicle impoundment. You should set up a reminder system to ensure you renew your registration on time. Many states offer online renewals for added convenience.
Underinflated Tires
Proper tire inflation is crucial for fuel efficiency and tire lifespan. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder, burning more gas. You must regularly check your tire pressure, including the spare, and inflate it to the recommended level as specified in your car’s manual.
Not Shopping Around for Insurance.
Car insurance premiums can vary significantly between companies. Don’t settle for the first quote you get; instead, compare rates from multiple insurers. You should also consider raising the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in (deductible) to potentially lower your premium. If you have been with one provider for a number of years, try calling them to ask for a loyalty discount.
Unnecessary Car Washes
While keeping your car clean is important, excessive car washes can damage the paint and be expensive. You can try washing your car yourself at home or opt for waterless car wash options that can be more eco-friendly and budget-conscious.
Roof Rack Problems
Leaving your roof rack on when not in use increases wind resistance, impacting fuel efficiency. While it can be a hassle, remove it when not needed to streamline your car and save on gas.
Subscription Services on Autopilot
While they can be helpful, remote start, satellite radio, and other in-car subscription services can add up over time. You should do a thorough review of your car’s subscription services and cancel any you don’t use regularly. If you do actually use some subscriptions but are looking for ways to save cash, you can look at free or cheaper apps.
Ignoring Minor Dents and Scratches
Surface scratches and dents may seem like cosmetic issues, but left unattended; they can potentially lead to rust and more expensive repairs down the road. You should promptly address minor dents and scratches to prevent further damage and maintain your car’s value.
Not Planning for Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to running your car smoothly and avoiding costly breakdowns. Schedule routine maintenance according to your car’s manual and proactively address any potential issues before they become major problems.
Ditch Car Navigation Systems
Built-in navigation systems can be very expensive, and you can save hundreds of pounds by using alternative methods. There are lots of free apps that you can install on your phone and link to your car system.
Say No To Useless Upsells
Try not to be swayed by pushy car dealers offering trends and fads. If there are specific add-ons you’re interested in, like paint protection or extended warranties, research their average costs beforehand. This will help you gauge the dealership’s pricing and negotiate effectively.
Harvi Sadhra is the CEO of Revir Media. He has over 10 years of experience in digital media and has been featured in many of the largest media brands on topics related to finance, stocks, money, technology, and more.