Many people assume that owning a car is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Although there are some costs that are unavoidable, there are numerous ways you can reduce your outgoings and your budget as a car owner. If you want to minimise your motoring costs, take a look at the money-saving tips every driver needs to know:
1. Buy the Right Model
First and foremost, you’ll want to buy the best model for your needs. A gas-guzzling, sports car probably isn’t going to be an ideal family run-around, for example. Furthermore, you’ll want to ensure a potential new car doesn’t have a bad track record, so be sure to carry out a free car check before parting with your cash. With a little research, you’ll find it easy to locate a car you love that matches your driving style and your budget.
2. Choose the Best Tyres
People often spend more on tyres than they need to, simply because they assume the more expensive tyres are better. However, this isn’t always the case. Choose your tyres based on the type of driving you do, rather than the price. By keeping them inflated to an appropriate pressure, you can avoid using excess fuel, which will keep your running costs down too.
3. Compare Insurance Providers
Car insurance can be the most expensive aspect of owning a vehicle, so don’t pay over the odds. You can carry out a comparison check in seconds, so it’s easy to find out what deals are available. By removing unwanted extras from the policy, you can reduce the cost of insurance even further.
It’s important to remember that not all insurance companies are featured on comparison websites. If you want to get the best deal, search for providers individually, as well as using comparison sites.
4. Avoid Premium Fuel
Although many drivers use premium fuel, most cars don’t actually need it. Before you fill up the tank, consider the engine and decide whether premium fuel really makes much difference. For most cars, it won’t change the engine performance, so it could be money you’re wasting. By switching to standard fuel, you can save a considerable amount every time you top up the tank.
5. Don’t Park Near Other Cars
Every year, millions of cars are damaged in car parks and when they’re stationary on the street. Where you choose to park your car can have a big impact on whether it’s likely to be damaged, so think ahead before leaving your vehicle anywhere. In supermarket or shopping mall car parks, for example, you can avoid your car being damaged by parking further away from the entrance and ensuring your vehicle isn’t too near any other cars.
Cutting the Cost of Car Ownership
Choosing the right vehicle model and keeping your car well-maintained are two of the most important things when it comes to reducing the cost of car ownership. By resolving minor problems as they arise, rather than letting them develop into major faults, you can dramatically reduce repair bills and keep your car safer too.
