According to recent data, the average monthly car maintenance cost is $900.50. If that is anything to go by, many car owners will want to avoid making common mistakes that increase the amount. More importantly, they will want to learn new and effective ways to reduce costs. All over the internet, you will find articles offering suggestions on things you can do to reduce these costs. Below are some of those methods.
RECONSIDER YOUR PREMIUM GAS USE
In the auto world, high-performance cars are known to use fuel with a 91- octane rating. Some luxury cars are manufactured to use this same type of gasoline. What’s so special about premium gas? They are more difficult to ignite or result in spontaneous combustion. Indeed, that is good news; but the not too exciting aspect is the cost due to the refinery process.
Regular gas has an octane rating of 87 and is comparatively cheaper for regular cars. So, why would you spend so much on premium gas for your regular car? Experts say, although premium gas can be used for regular cars, users may have to reconsider the cost. They also say skipping premium octane for regular gasoline gives you an extra 40 gallons for your car.
REMOVE UNNECESSARY WEIGHT FROM THE CAR
The science behind this is quite simple. Excess weight increases the baseline force a vehicle requires to move every mile per hour. Therefore, a car with additional weight will increase the rate at which it burns fuel to perform at optimum levels. You can compare your body to the car you drive around. How would you feel if you had to carry a heavy backpack as you perform your daily activities? Certainly, you will get tired quicker, thirst more, and require extra energy.
This makes it easier to comprehend the pressure you put on your car when it’s packed with unnecessary weight. You will also realize that you must top up your fuel tank more often. Therefore, removing any items that may be an added burden for your vehicle is advisable and carrying them around only when required.
TRACK YOUR FUEL EXPENSES AND WHERE YOU GET IT
If you have never paid attention to how much fuel your car consumes, now may be a good time to do so. Additionally, you may want to reassess where you buy your car’s fuel because you just might be overpaying. Many drivers prefer to fill their tanks at specific locations because of the cards they hold. However, you may want to avoid some hidden costs by changing your current fuel card. Using options like fleet cards by Coast helps you save and allows you to fuel up anywhere, which is convenient.
SHOP AROUND FOR THE BEST INSURANCE DEALS
Getting things cheap is not always advisable as there may be dire repercussions. This is why it is crucial to be cautious when shopping for the best but cost-effective insurance deals for your car. Before settling on one insurance deal, you may first want to compare the rates from three or four companies. And it would be best to have a firm understanding of auto insurance before deciding on one, so keep this in mind.
Also, remember that several insurance companies may offer what appears to be cheaper packages but with hidden costs. Furthermore, it would be wise to opt for a higher deductible. This means you can reduce your premium car insurance costs, ultimately saving money in the long run. Fortunately, you can always change your insurance company if their package does not suit your needs. Shopping around for a better deal will be worth the effort.
USE A CAR THAT FITS INTO YOUR FINANCIAL EXPECTATIONS AND LIFESTYLE
As already mentioned, the average cost of maintaining a car is quite high. This is why it is vital to choose a vehicle that aligns with your budget first of all. If you already did the additions, you will know if the final sum fits into your budget or not. Just in case you already bought a car that is already burning a hole through your wallet, there is hope. It may not be too late to sell it or exchange it for a cheaper car in good condition, so feel free to consider this. If your original plan is to have it for some years before letting it go, it would be best to be confident that your current finances will cover the period.
Photo Credit: Toyota
