For some drivers, their cars have become money pits. Higher
fuel prices have been the monkey wrench that has spoiled many a motorists
driving experience. No longer can any of us count on cheap fuel, high gasoline
prices are here to stay. However, you can save money on your overall car
expenses and restore your driving pleasure quickly. Here are some tips
to guide you along the way:
Regular Gas v. Premium Gas Very few vehicles built today
require premium gasoline. Thanks to knock sensors, which adjust the mixture of
air and fuel to your engine, many cars can run on "87" octane fuel v.
"91" octane fuel. By selecting the cheaper priced grade of fuel, you
can save a nice amount of money over one year’s time.
Wash it Yourself. No one does a better job of washing and
waxing your car then you do. Avoid those all too frequent trips to the car
wash and save some money today. Of course, if you live in a more
northerly climate where snow and road salt usage is pervasive, going to a car
wash is a must in order to protect your vehicle’s body. Buy
a coupon book to save on multiple washes.
What’s in Your Wallet? If you aren’t already using a rewards
credit card for your gasoline purchases, you should be. Some cards are designed
to give you an instant price reduction at the pump. Shop around for the card
that is right for you.
Check Your Tires. Under inflated tires can reduce gasoline
mileage by as much as 10%. In addition, under inflated tires will wear out
faster too.
Review Your Insurance Policy. You may be paying for too much
insurance on your car especially if it is worth less than $3000 and you still
have collision coverage. Drop the collision coverage and bank the savings
toward a down payment on your next Car. Make certain that all of
your other personal information is accurate too as an incorrectly listed zip
code can impact your rates.
Change Your Oil. Granted, not too many people change their
car’s oil anymore. With ten minute oil change shops so widespread, the
convenience factor is a big consideration. Still, if you have someone else
changing your oil, you do not need to change it every 3000 miles unless you
subject your car to severe driving. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations
and change it according to their specifications, not Jiffy Lube’s.
Do the Work Yourself. Some maintenance you can do yourself
thereby avoiding having to pay high labor charges and too much for your parts.
Air filters, oil filters, belts, batteries, and many other smaller parts can be
changed by most motorists. Shop online through a discount wholesaler and you
can save even more money on premium automotive parts.
Gas prices are likely to remain high, so saving money
elsewhere becomes even more important. A wise consumer shops around for the
best deals and there are plenty of them out there. In the face of a fuel
crisis, you may have to curtail some of your driving or at least change your
driving habits, however the "Great American Past Time" is alive and
well and cruising down a freeway near you. Safe driving
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