Cars are expensive. They’re expensive to buy, expensive to run, and expensive when something goes wrong with them. If you use your car a lot, you might already be feeling the pinch.
But here’s the thing. There are ways to keep your running costs low, so you don’t have to spend way over the odds. You can also avoid the following mistakes, as they can all be responsible for driving down your finances.
You are paying too much on your insurance
Car insurance is a necessary evil, so you can’t get out of paying it. However, you don’t have to pay more than you need to, as by shopping around for cheaper car insurance when its time to renew, you might be able to make significant savings.
You drive too fast
Not only will you run the risk of a speeding ticket if you hurtle along like Mad Max, but you will use up a lot more petrol too. As a result, you will be forced to fuel up more often! Be sensible then and stick to the speed limit. You will conserve fuel this way and you won’t instigate a police chase when you’re out and about.
You drive when you don’t need to
If you are going on a long journey, fine, use your car. And if you are getting in your weekly shop, take your car so your arms don’t drop off when carrying your shopping. But if you only need a few items from the local store, why not walk instead? If it’s not too far away, you will benefit from the exercise. The same applies for any other short journeys you might have to take. If you can use two legs instead of four wheels, then do so. You will feel both physically and financially healthier if you do.
You are carrying too much weight
Here’s another reason why your car will burn up fuel. The more loaded down your car is the more petrol you will burn, so open up your boot. Is it time to give it a good clearout? There are things you should carry with you in your car, but if you have non-essentials weighing your car down, you might want to remove them.
You’re ignoring car warning signs
Okay, so we know you’ll be keen to avoid paying a fortune at your local garage. For this reason, you might turn up the stereo to drown out any weird noises, and you might attach an air freshener to mask any unpleasant smells. But listen, if there are any warning signs indicating your car could be in trouble, don’t ignore them. The longer you wait, the more expensive any problems might get, and you might be forced to call out a breakdown service. Book your car in as soon as you suspect something might be wrong, as not only will you pay less (if you choose a reputable garage), but you will be in a far safer position too.
Are you guilty of any of the above? If so, change your ways, as your car will be far less likely to drive down your finances.
