Money Saving Car Repair Tips
Most new cars have far fewer maintenance needs than old cars, but they still require a certain level of upkeep. Though many parts last far longer than they used to, most of them cannot last as long as the car itself. The amount of maintenance a vehicle needs is largely controlled by its owner. If you treat your car right, you can significantly lower the maintenance and repair costs. Here are some tips to help you save money on car repair.
Today’s automobiles are much sturdier than older cars. Through continuing technological advances,
car parts are now made from materials that can survive more wear and tear. This means that new cars typically do not require as much regular maintenance or tune ups, but such services are not completely obsolete. No matter how much the parts have improved, they may still eventually require repair or replacement. How often this is needed and how much it will cost depends a great deal on the driver. Here are some tips to help you save money on car repair:
- Regular Oil Changes: A surprising number of people tend to neglect this service, which should be completed at regular intervals. Although many manufacturers recommend an oil change only once a year or every 7500 miles, you should actually have it done every six months or 3000 miles. The car maker suggestions are for ideal driving circumstances, which most people do not meet. Taking short trips regularly, driving in city traffic conditions, and spending long periods of time on the highway are all considered severe circumstances. The increased wear that an engine receives if oil changes are too infrequent can result in poor fuel economy, poor performance, and higher emissions. All of these problems can cost you considerably more money than the routine oil changes would.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule: When you purchase a car from a dealership, the salesperson typically gives you a maintenance schedule. The dealership’s schedule can often be quite different from the manufacturer’s schedule, and you may end up wasting money on new parts well before they are actually needed. You should adhere to the car maker’s maintenance timeframe unless your car is not running well.
- Find a Good, Independent Mechanic: Do not take your car to the dealership when it is in need of major service. Most auto repair shops will provide the same or better quality work for a much lower price. Look for a shop that is neat and organized, with employees who are willing to answer all of your questions. Avoid places that appear cluttered and where the staff seems shady. You can often find customer reviews on several websites, or ask your friends and family for recommendations to help you locate a trustworthy mechanic. Finding a good car shop increases the likelihood that the repair will be completed properly and you will be charged a fair price.
- Repair Brakes As Soon As Possible: Ignoring squeaky brakes for too long can result in a much higher repair bill when you finally get them fixed. You can check the front brake pads for wear by looking through the wheels. If the pads are less than a quarter inch, they need to be replaced. Continued use of worn pads can cause major wear on the brake rotors, and you can end up needing to replace both rotors and pads. This is much more expensive than new brake pads alone.
These tips are some of the best ways to save money on car repairs. Most importantly, you should always treat your vehicle properly. Make sure it receives the proper maintenance when needed. Be smart about when and where your car is repaired, and you can drastically lower the amount of money you’ll spend.
