This is a collaborative post.
Having a car gives you so much independence. You can go where you want, when you want. You don’t have to rely on lifts or public transport that only runs at certain times. Being able to drive offers you great freedom. However, it can also be expensive and so it makes sense to do what you can to bring down those costs as much as possible. Here are some of the ways you can save money when you own a car.
Shop Around For Insurance
One of the biggest expenses for drivers is always going to be the insurance. Even if you’re an experienced driver with a clean record, it’s an annoying cost that you have to pay each year. If you’re newer or have had incidents in the past then your car insurance could be a huge chunk of your overall budget. Be sure to shop around to get the best deal. Not just the cheapest outright, but one that’s right for you. For example, some people would benefit from a system like Metromile who reward customers who drive less with lower premiums. So if you don’t do much driving, this could work out much cheaper for you.
Carpool
Carpooling to work can be a great way for you and your colleagues to save money. You could decide on a regular driver who picks you all up in return for some money, or you could be picked up by them and contribute towards fuel. It saves you all from having to drive or suffer public transport to get to work, and helps the environment as well. See if your work has a carpooling system in place. If not speak to your supervisor about creating one.
Don’t Drive Shorter Journeys
Not only are lots of short journeys bad for your car, but they’re also bad for the environment- not to mention your bank balance due to the fuel consumption. When you have a car, it’s tempting to want to drive everywhere. If you can walk or bike then do so – you’ll save yourself some money and get some exercise in in the process. Now we’re in the warmer months of the year, it’s a chance to soak up some sun and enjoy the outdoors too. Skipping these shorter journeys will not only save you fuel, but you’ll prevent needing to pay for repairs too. During short journeys the oil doesn’t warm through, meaning more friction and chance of wear. Short journeys also tend to be more stop/start as opposed to sustaining speed and revs, so less strain on the engine.
Upgrade Your Car
Buying a newer, probably more expensive car might seem counter intuitive when it comes to saving money. However, a newer car will likely break down less saving you on repairs, it will also be less expensive to insure in most cases and if you choose well will be more efficient on fuel.
Be more frugal in your approach to car ownership and save yourself some money.
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