Owning a car means a lot more than forking over the cash for each monthly payment. The cost of gas alone will throw some of us over budget each month. When you add in oil changes, washing and detailing and other maintenance, you're probably spending a pretty penny each month just to get from Point A to Point B safely. If all this vehicle maintenance has you feeling down, you might consider cutting a few corners to lower the cost of owning a vehicle.
Wash Your Own Car
The convenience of automatic car washes is quite alluring, but you might consider washing your car or truck at home to save some green. Whether you wash your car religiously each month or often go several months without a cleaning, you will save a few bucks by doing it yourself. Grab the shop vac and a dust rag to detail the inside of your car as well. If you give the dashboard a quick swipe every week or so, it will be easy to keep up a clean interior. Another tip is always throwing away any articles of trash each time you leave the car. This will avoid messy garbage build-up in your vehicle.
Learn to Perform Routine Maintenance
Changing the oil, spark plugs or air filter might sound harder than it actually is. You will save big when you learn how to do these routine jobs yourself. The internet provides a plethora of resources to guide you each step of the way. You might also consult a friend who knows how to do these tasks or ask someone to teach you. With the average oil and filter change costing around $35, you will save big by doing it yourself. You can also easily learn how to change your own wiper blades and headlights by consulting the vehicle's manual.
Shop Around for Insurance
Insurance companies are constantly competing with each other, trying to get customers to switch to their coverage. Work with an insurance agent who will find you the best rates. Many companies offer discounts when you get multiple policies from them. Consider getting your home, car or life insurances from the same company. To lower your monthly premium, you might also consider lowering your deductible. If you have an older car, worth less than $2,000, consider dropping the collision and comprehension coverage and opting for basic coverage. You can also look for no credit check auto insurance to keep any credit problems from affecting your car insurance rates.
Buy Tires Online
The internet has opened up a new market in tire sales. Internet tire companies are offering tires at up to 30 percent off your local tire dealer's prices. Make sure you get free shipping. You can either install them yourself or bring them to a local garage to install.
Pay Cash for Vehicles
The best way to save each month is by eliminating the car payment. Do this by saving a bit each month in a new vehicle fund. Determine what you can afford to save each month and follow through with it. Calculate how many years you will need to save to buy your next vehicle with cash or at least a hefty down payment.
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