Car Saving Habits Every Car Owner Should Have

Ever notice how much your better your car drives after its been washed? Its almost like your car is rewarding you for taking care of it. Keep your car treating you nice as long as possible by doing these few things. The more consistent you incorporate these things into your routine the better. You wont save a ton of money, but these are good habits to have and will pay for them self over time. Plus they will keep your car running well.




Do’s

Do perform preventative maintenance. Follow your factory’s maintenance schedule. Get things replaced before they go. An example would be replacing your timing belt before it breaks or getting brake pads replaced so you don’t need a major brake job.

Do learn how to replace your air filter and wiper blades yourself. Don’t pay to get these changed. If you go to a Auto Zone, They will either replace them for free or show you how.

Do keep maintenance records. A record of every repair done will help you determine what action you need to take if something goes wrong. Is it something that is still under warranty or maybe its just time to get something replaced. A log of repairs will help you remember. It’s also a good to have this if you ever decide to sell you car.

Do learn how to change a tire. This one is really more of a time saver. If you do not have a service like premium AAA it could save you some money as well.

Do keep your tires properly inflated. Check them regularly to save on gas and get them rotated as scheduled to avoid unnecessary and uneven wear.

Do drive your car until it dies. If you don’t need to be seen in a newer car drive it as long as possible. You can start a car savings account after is paid and save until it dies.


Don’ts

Don’t over insure your car. Check your auto policy and reduce or eliminate coverage you do not need. Check you collision coverage. If you have an older car that’s not worth much more than the deductible, don’t carry collision. If you feel you can get by without a rental if your car went to the shop you can get rid of it. These are just a couple of examples. If you have Homeowners insurance, insuring both car and house with the same company can lead to extra savings. Ask what other discounts are available to you.

Don’t change your oil every 3,000-miles. Not every car needs to change the oil this often. If you have a newer car you can get away with 5,000 and in a few cases 7,500. Check your manufacturer recommends. You may read that changing every 3,000 will lead to fewer problems. I believe if you do the other small things here you can go a little longer in between oil changes.

Don’t use a dealer for oil changes. This is something that you can learn to do yourself if you have the space. If not use a local shop or gas station. It is always cheaper than the Dealer.

Don’t go to any repair shop for major repairs. Its always best if you have someone you trust who can recommend a shop. If not shop around. Ask or call a couple of different shops, take some notes and compare.

Don’t buy extended warranties. If you take care of your car it will take care of you.

Don’t buy premium gas instead of regular. Buy the lowest octane gasoline that does not make your car engine knock.

Don’t pay for car washes. Unless you live somewhere where it’s virtually impossible to wash it on your own, you should take the time to wash your car yourself.