Pocket Extra Cash By Avoiding These Simple Car Care Wastes
Are you spending too much money on simple car care wastes? Even if you treat your car like a spoilt pet, you can probably find ways to treat your car well without over indulging in wasteful car-related expenses. If we love them, Cars can easily make us act irrationally, but that doesn't mean we have to succumb to spending money that neither helps us or our cars that we love. Here are some tips to avoid wastes and save money on your car appearance and maintenance.
Do you fill your car with premium gas?
If you think that buying premium gas is the only way to go with your car, maybe it's time to do a little more research. These days with record high gasoline prices, you should try to make sure that you are not overspending. Generally speaking, your car will be OK if you simply buy the cheap gasoline providing that it doesn't cause your car's engine to knock. Many people purchase expensive premium gasoline because they think it is a special treatment for their car's engine and that it will help their car run better, longer and more efficiently. In most cases, the octane will merely help prevent a knock, but it won't make your car immune to any of the other problems which are likely to occur.
Aggressive oil change schedules
Many people change their oil far more often than is really necessary. There are many tune-up chains and independant auto repair businesses that advise 3,000 mile oil changes. When in fact, most car manufacturers recommend 5,000 to 7,500 miles or longer intervals between oil changes. Get to know your car and your manufacturer's recommendations, then follow these rather than the oil change schedule your mechanic isrecommending.
Using the dealer for all your car maintenance needs While it may seem simpler and even safer at times,
chances are that you are overpaying on repairs and maintenance by taking your car directly to the dealer. Save money by finding a good, reliable independent mechanic. Dealer prices and parts are often over priced. Don't be afraid to shop around for a good price, even if it may be a little inconvenient or time-consuming, in the long run it can sometimes save you from parting with a heap of money.
Learn to change a flat tire
If you don't already know how to do it, make it a point to learn to change a flat tire. Not only will you
save hundreds of dollars in case that you should get a flat, you will probably also save a lot of time.
Who wants to wait around for a half hour or more in the heat or cold for somebody to come change your tire, when there is a very good chance that you can do it yourself? Don't be afraid to learn, find a trusted friend to teach you. Get out the car's instruction manual and follow the steps, it's not that hard. Practice in your garage or yard until you have it under control, or even think about taking a basic auto maintenance class if they are offered in your area.
Scrupulously avoid the ten dollar car wash Drive by any car wash and see how many people are waiting in a long line, just for a bucket of gray water or an overpriced professional car wash. Nothing shows that you care about your car than giving it a good regular cleaning on your own. Invest in the proper equipment (a bucket, blade, soap, water, dry towel) and see how nice it can be to get a good clean for a lot less. Even try just the bucket of water and a shammie cloth, you will be amazed, you really don't even need the oap. Keep a small vacuum cleaner on hand to pick up stray dust, dirt and crumbs from the interior.
Don't assume!
Many car owners make the mistake of buying a whole new set of tires when what the car really needs is new shocks or perhaps just two new tires for now. Maybe you have misinterpreted a brake squeal as a call for new brakes. In many cases, especially if you are not on schedule for replacements, these may be symptoms of smaller troubles. A brake squeal could also mean that you may need new rotors or pads. Make sure to investigate thoroughly and keep records of all maintenance so that you are not prone to jumping to conclusions and spending unneccessary money on over servicing.
Tags: credit, don't waste money, reduce debt, saving money
