Saving money on car running costs is something that all drivers should aim to do. After all, the cost of petrol and other related expenses can soon add up, and why should you spend more than you need to? Here are some tips on how to save money on your car’s running costs, including ways to improve fuel efficiency, reduce wear and tear, and keep your car in good condition for longer. Read on to learn more!
On average, it costs just over $5,000 per year to run a car in the United States. This figure can vary significantly depending on which state you live in, how much you drive your car, and a number of other factors. So while some Americans spend something closer to $3,000 per year on their car, others may spend around $10,000 per year.
Neither end of this spectrum is an insignificant cost. So is it possible to lower the amount you spend on your car every year? The short answer is ‘yes’. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
Drive Less
This one is pretty straightforward – the less you use your car, the less money you’ll spend on running costs. If you have access to public transport or can carpool with someone for your commute, take advantage of it! You could also look into working from home one or two days per week if that’s an option.
Of course, there will be times when you need to use your car. But if you can cut down on the amount you drive and it doesn’t have a significant impact on your life, you’ll definitely see a difference in your running costs.
Choose the Right Car and Warranty
The type of car you drive will have a big impact on how much money you spend on running costs. Smaller, more fuel-efficient cars tend to be much cheaper to run than larger vehicles. And while an SUV may be great for off-roading, it probably isn’t the best choice if you’re trying to save money.
When you’re looking for a new car, be sure to do your research on fuel efficiency and running costs. It’s also worth considering whether you want to buy a new or used car. While a new car may come with a warranty that covers some running costs, a used car may be more affordable in the long run.
You might also choose an extended warranty when you buy a car, such as the Endurance extended warranty. This is great for people who want the peace of mind to know that certain unexpected expenses will be covered by the policy.
Maintain Your Car Regularly
Keeping your car in good condition is one of the best ways to reduce running costs. That’s because well-maintained cars are more fuel-efficient and tend to have fewer mechanical problems.
To keep your car in good condition, make sure you take it for regular servicing. This will help to identify any potential problems early on so they can be fixed before they become more serious (and expensive).
You should also make sure you keep on top of things like tire pressure and oil changes. These small maintenance tasks can make a big difference to your car’s overall condition – and they’re usually pretty easy to do yourself.
It might feel like you’re spending more money by undertaking these maintenance tasks, but they will actually prevent more expensive problems from emerging later down the line.
Drive Sensibly
The way you drive can also have an impact on your car’s running costs. If you’re constantly accelerating and braking harshly, you’ll use more fuel than if you drive smoothly and at a consistent speed.
Of course, there will be times when you need to accelerate quickly – for example, if you’re merging onto a busy highway. But if you can avoid sudden starts and stops where possible, you’ll see a difference in your fuel consumption.
In addition to using more fuel, driving erratically can also damage your car’s tires and brakes. So not only will you save money on fuel, you’ll also reduce the wear and tear on your car, which could save you money on repairs or replacements down the line.
Plan Your Trips
If you’re going to be driving a lot in one day, it’s worth taking the time to plan your route. This will help you avoid getting stuck in traffic, which can waste both time and fuel.
If you know there are certain areas you’re going to be driving through that are likely to be congested, try to take a different route. This may add a few extra minutes to your journey, but it will be worth it in the long run.
You can also save time – and money – by grouping together all of the errands you need to do in one trip. This way, you won’t have to make multiple journeys and you can make the most of your time on the road.
Use An App To Check Fuel Prices
If you’re looking to save money on fuel, it’s worth downloading a fuel price app. This will allow you to see which gas stations in your area have the cheapest prices.
It’s also a good idea to fill up your tank when you’re near the outskirts of town. This is because gas prices tend to be cheaper in rural areas than in urban areas.
Of course, you shouldn’t drive out of your way to save a few cents per gallon. But if you’re going to be passing a gas station that has lower prices, it’s worth stopping to fill up.
Get A Rewards Credit Card
If you’re going to be spending a lot of money on fuel, it’s worth getting a rewards credit card. This way, you can earn points (or cash back) on every purchase you make.
There are a few different rewards credit cards to choose from, so it’s worth doing some research to find one that will suit your needs.
