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9 Ways To Save Money On Car Expenses.

Posted in Save Money.
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Although the most interesting method to save on car operating costs came from my chemistry teacher in high school (Buy your gasoline in the early morning or at night when it is cold outside. Gas becomes denser in cooler temperatures.

Gas prices are at historically high levels and the long term trend is indicating more of the same for American drivers. If you operate one or more vehicles, you know that saving money somewhere, anywhere is important to maintaining your budget. Here are 9 tips to help you be financially wise when it comes to managing your car expenses.


Since gas pumps only measure the volume of fuel - not the density - you’ll get better overall gas mileage for your money by purchasing fuel when it’s cool outside rather than in the heat of the day), the moment that will determine the true amount you can save on your car costs comes before you even buy a car. The simple fact is that the type of car you decide to purchase will have the largest impact on the expenses you incur during the lifetime of it.

  1. Take a look at your insurance. If your car is worth less than three thousand dollars, consider dropping collision. The money you save can go toward a down payment on your next car.
  2. Keep your tires properly inflated. Your gas mileage will drop if your tires are underinflated. Keep your tires at the recommended pressure and your gas mileage will remain steady.

    3. Even if a large sports utility vehicle is your dream car, it’s probably a lot more than you really need. Taking some time to make a list of the things you’ll use the car for will help determine the difference between your true needs and your wants. It’s important to remember that each additional want you add above what you really need will cost you not only at the time of purchase, but in most cases well down the road with an increase in maintenance and operating costs.

  3. Do not change your oil too frequently. Unless you drive exclusively in the city you do not need to change your oil every 3000 miles. Most cars can go up to 7500 miles before needing an oil change. You will still need to change your oil twice yearly even if you drive very infrequently.
  4. Do some minor maintenance yourself. You should be able to change your wipers, air filter, battery, and replace a blown out tire yourself. If you rely on others, your costs will increase dramatically.

    5. The size of the car you decide to purchase will have a direct effect on its operating costs. Purchasing the smallest car possible for your driving needs will save you a tremendous amount in gasoline charges. Small cars weigh about half as much as larger cars which results in about half as much fuel being used. Once you have decided on the size of car, it’s worthwhile taking the time to research the safety ratings of the different cars in that size range. Not only will this improve your chances of staying alive in an accident, it will likely reduce your car insurance costs. A quick call to your car insurance company will tell you the tale. Remember, if you keep your car for 7 years, a $25 a month difference in insurance costs adds up to over $2,100 over the lifetime of the car.

  5. Use regular gas. If you car requires regular gas, do not splurge on premium. Your car will not run any better and you will have paid as much as twenty cents extra per gallon.
  6. Don’t purchase an extended warranty. The amount of money you pay for an extended warranty is usually more than what the warranty is worth. If you feel that a particular car model requires an extended warranty, perhaps you should consider shopping for something much more reliable.
  7. Take it to the car wash. Actually, don’t. You’ll save plenty of money by washing and waxing your car yourself.

    8. Once you have a car, taking some simple steps can reduce your operating costs by hundreds of dollars. For example, if you reduce your gas consumption by $20 a week, it will save you over $1,000 a year. Most people can easily save this amount (and often much more) by simply changing their driving habits and paying a little more attention to their cars.

  8. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. The manufacturer of your automobile will know how long parts should last. Change your timing belt before it becomes a problem, your fuel filter at least bi-annually, and keep an eye on your brakes, tires, and shocks. Most cars built today do not need a complete tune up for as long as 100,000 miles, so don’t plunk down the $200 for a tune up before one is actually necessary.

    9. By far the best way to reduce your car expenses is to use your car only when necessary. Cars are extremely convenient and this causes people to use them much more often than they really need to. By simply asking yourself, “Is this trip really necessary?” you can greatly decrease the amount you drive… [read more]

  9. Use a private garage. No, you do not have to take your Toyota to the Toyota dealership for maintenance. If you have a good, local garage that is familiar with your make and model you will, more than likely, save money by using them instead.

We’re not likely to see gas prices below $2 per gallon again, while $3 per gallon may soon be the norm. You cannot control supply and demand, but you can take these steps to ensure that your car does not become a money pit.

Autor: Matthew Keegan.
Source: www.thearticlewriter.com

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