Frugality is a way of life but some things in life still require a lot more money than we are willing to pay. When it comes to cars, it seems as if it is a necessary evil. We must have a car to get to work to make money. Without a car, many people would be lost so when it comes to car expenses it seems many individuals do not leave much room for consideration.
Here are 10 things you should stop wasting your money on when it comes to your vehicle:
1. Buying Premium Gas
People will complain about ‘cheap’ gasoline causing knocking in vehicle engines but any octane gas will prevent knock. You can use regular gas at the pump and start saving cash today.
2. Oil Change Every 3K
Car manufacturers actually recommend an oil change at 5,000-7,500 miles. Some cars even come with the technology that actually tells you when your oil is dirty. If you rarely use your car, you can limit your changes to twice annually. For more driving, cold climates, and above-normal driving including towing, and for high-performance vehicles, stick with the manufacturer’s recommendations and not the oil change service commercials.
3. Take Repairs to the Dealer
Unless there is a recall on your vehicle that will be repaired at no cost to you, check around for an independent repair service that will provide the same of quality work at much more reasonable pricing. Ask friends and family for referrals to reputable places. You should even call 3-4 places and ask for an estimate on work that needs to be done before choosing.
4. Improper Tire Inflation
You should check your tire inflation at least once a month. Tires that are not properly inflated can cost you extra gas each time you drive. You also run the risk of blowing out a tire that will cost additional cash to repair or replace.
5. Replacing Tires Without Proper Alignment
If you find you have to keep replacing your tires because they are wearing unevenly, you are wasting your money over and over again if you haven’t first check the alignment on your vehicle. Alignments are necessarily cheap either but it will save you a lot of wear and tear on new tires and prevent you from having to replace them often.
6. Extended Warranties
Generally, car manufacturers allow you to wait until right before the original warranty runs out on your car before offering you the extended warranty. If your car has been with you awhile and you don’t anticipate a lot of trouble based on history, don’t fall for the extension as most of the additional warranties are not worth the cost.
7. DIY Maintenance
If you can not change a wiper blade, a tire, or the air and fuel filter on your vehicle, you are wasting your money. Not everyone is a born mechanic but if you have to rely on paying someone each and every time it will cost you. Ask a friend or visit the local high schools that teach mechanics for a lesson or two in the basics.
8. Too Much Insurance
Liability is something you don’t want to skimp on with your car insurance. When it comes to comprehensive and collision you want to determine if you really need it and if so how much. You can add your deductible to the yearly bill for collision and comprehensive coverage and then check out the wholesale value of the vehicle. If it comes to more than half, you reconsider the coverage.
9. Disorganized Records
Even if you have been with the same mechanic for ages or if you routinely change service places, you should always keep records of your car’s maintenance. In the event someone tries to convince you that you need new brakes, you can go back to an organized file and prove to yourself and the mechanic you just got new brakes two months ago. It is also important to keep receipts and other information that will help you maintain and use warranties or get refunds for faulty repairs.
10. Car Wash Waste
Sure it is convenient to drive up, drop some quarters and have a high pressure washer at your service or have someone else do the whole job for you but you can save quite a few bucks buy buying supplies once and cleaning your car at home. Wash soap, wax, rags, a bucket, and a vacuum cleaner will allow you to clean your car often and at less cost.