Ways To Save Money On Car Expenses

If you run one or more vehicles, you know that saving money somewhere, anywhere is important to maintaining your budget. Here are 9 pointers to help you be financially wise when it comes to handling your car expenses.

1. Have 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 vehicle.

2. Keep your tires properly inflated. Your gas mileage will fall if your tires are underinflated. Keep your tires at the recommended pressure and your gas mileage will stay steady.

3. Don't change your oil too often. If you don't drive exclusively in town that you don't have to change your oil every 3000 miles. Most cars can go up to 7500 miles before needing an oil change. You will still have to change your oil twice annually even if you drive very rarely.

4. Do some small maintenance yourself. You need to be able to modify your wipers, air filter, battery, and replace a blown out tire yourself. If you rely on other people, your costs will increase dramatically.

5. Use regular gas. If you car requires regular gasoline, don't splurge on premium. Your car won't run any better and you'll have paid up to twenty cents extra per gallon.

6. Don't buy an extended warranty. The quantity of money you pay for an extended warranty is usually more than what the guarantee is worth. If you think that a specific automobile model necessitates an extended warranty, maybe you should consider searching for something a whole lot more reliable.

7. Take it to the car wash. Actually, do not. You'll save loads of money by washing and waxing your car yourself.

8. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. The manufacturer of your car will know how long parts should continue. Change your timing belt until it becomes a problem, your fuel filter at least bi-annually, and keep your eye on your brakes, tires, and shocks. Most cars built today don't require a complete tune up for as long as 100,000 miles, so don't plunk down the $200 to get a tune up before one is really essential.

9. Use a personal garage. No, you don't need to take your Toyota into the Toyota dealership for maintenance. In case you've got a great, local garage that's familiar with your make and model you will, most likely, save money by using these instead.