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Pocket Extra Cash By Avoiding These Silly Car
Wastes
Are you spending too much money on silly car wastes? Even if
you treat your car like a loyal pet, you can probably find ways
to treat your car well without indulging in wasteful
car-related expenses. 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
on avoiding wastes and saving money on your car
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 reevaluate. In these days of
record high gas prices, you should make sure that you are not
overspending on gasoline. Generally speaking, you will be OK
simply by buying the cheapest gasoline that doesn’t cause your
car’s engine to knock. Many people purchase expensive premium
gasoline because they think of it as a special treat that will
help their car run better and longer. In most cases, however,
octane will merely help prevent a knock, but it won’t make your
car immune to other problems.
Aggressive oil change schedules
Many people change their oil more frequently than is actually
necessary. There are many tune-up chains and auto repair
businesses that advise 3,000 mile oil changes. In fact, most
car manufacturers recommend 5,000, 7,500 or longer intervals
between oil changes. Get to know your car and your
manufacturer’s recommendations and follow these rather than the
oil schedule recommended by your mechanic.
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 inflated. Don’t be afraid to comparison shop, even if it
may be a little inconvenient or time-consuming.
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? If you’re afraid to learn, find a trusted friend to
teach you. Practice in your garage or yard until you have it
down, or even take 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. Keep a small vacuum cleaner on hand to pick up stray
dust, dirt and crumbs from the interior.
Don’t jump to conclusions
Many car owners make the mistake of buying a whole new set of
tires when what the car really needs is new shocks. Or you
perhaps you misinterpret 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.
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