In my last blog, I took a look at how to save money on your car. But there were other ways that we did not have time to cover. By being proactive and using some initiative, it is always possible to get your costs down. Moolr took another look at ways to save money on your car.
Save Money On Your Car – Save on Extra Expenses
Car tax is another necessary payment added to the running costs of a car. If you pay for a whole year you get a discount and the amount you pay will depend on the size of the car engine. Thus, having a smaller vehicle will pay dividends. What’s more, if you have a car that has low emissions you will also pay less in car tax.
If you are going to have the car off the road for a considerable length of time then fill in a SORN (statutory off road notification) form with the DVLA. This will avoid the possibility of fines. You will also get a refund of any car tax that has been overpaid when you complete this form.
Save Money On Your Car – Breakdown Cover
Always shop around when looking at the cost of having breakdown cover. Cover is needed for most. This is in case your car breaks down or you get a puncture. Whilst the majority of people choose the largest organisations like the AA or the RAC there are some better deals to be had by choosing a smaller company for breakdown cover. Comparison websites will help you find the cheapest cover.
If you already have a breakdown cover in place then ring your provider and ask for a discount. Competition is strong so you will almost certainly be able to haggle for a better deal. Threaten to leave if they fail to offer you one. Or actually leave if there are better deals available on the market. By shopping around you will be able to get peace of mind at a lower cost.
Save Money on the Maintenance and Running Costs
if you initially made sensible decisions in your choice of car, the weekly running costs can be reasonable. Basic weekly checks on oil, tyres and water levels can be done by yourself and reduce the risks of future problems or unexpected costs.
Source the best place to get new tyres and find the cheapest forecourt for filling up with fuel.. Large supermarkets are often the cheapest. Source outlets where cash back is in operation which can save you up to £80 per year. Don’t waste money paying for premium fuel for a standard car. Unless you have a high performance sports car it will make no difference other than costing you more money.
Looking at the way you drive your car can help you to get the optimum amount out of your fuel. how you drive can make your petrol go that little bit further, as shown by one particular Top Gear episode! Choose the correct gear so that the engine performs smoothly. Let the car slow naturally so that you do not need to stamp on the brakes. Plan manoeuvres on the road and do not use up fuel by using every gadget going in your vehicle.
Miscellaneous
Keep tyres inflated to the right levels, and get rid of heavy, unnecessary items in the car, often in the boot. The lighter the car is the cheaper it is to run.
The annual MOT check is another area where you can cut costs. By getting a pre-test check up you can usually save money on small problems that could cause the car to fail. checks would be on such things as light bulbs, brakes and the suspension.
Wash Your Car Yourself
Most people view car cleaning as a chore that needs to be done for cosmetic reasons. But is it really that much of a chore to wash a car, and put a hoover through the small interior? Not really, and over time this will save a significant amount of money.
Final Tips to Help You Cut Car Costs
Be careful where you park as parking tickets can add a substantial amount to your annual costs. Only use your car when it is essential. Consider a car share to work. Get a taxi to airports if within distance.
