Cutting down on vehicle maintenance costs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. We’ve gathered six savvy tips from owners, founders, and other experts to steer you in the right direction. From practicing regular maintenance and DIY to adopting efficient vehicle maintenance strategies, discover how these professionals keep their cars running smoothly without breaking the bank.
- Practice Regular Maintenance and DIY
- Utilize Warranties and Service Discounts
- Perform DIY Checks and Follow Schedules
- Learn Routine Maintenance and Source Parts
- Keep Tires Properly Inflated
- Adopt Efficient Vehicle Maintenance Strategies
Practice Regular Maintenance and DIY
I have found a few tips that make the difference in terms of saving money on personal vehicle maintenance. Firstly, staying updated with regular maintenance duties such as oil changes, air-filter replacements, and tire rotations can save you from costly repairs later. Also, acquiring some basic do-it-yourself skills helps a lot—for example, changing wiper blades or checking and topping up fluids are simple tasks that can be done conveniently at home while costing less.
Another economical approach is to source parts and supplies wisely. Sometimes it’s cheaper to buy car parts online or from reliable local suppliers than it is through dealerships. Moreover, looking out for discounts and promotions offered on maintenance services can reduce your costs.
Lastly, having a clean and well-arranged vehicle prevents wear and tear. Cleaning both the interior and exterior frequently not only keeps your ride attractive but also stops corrosion among other damages.
Through these techniques, I have managed to keep my vehicle functioning smoothly without spending too much on repair bills.
Ranjeet Singh
Owner, Eco Autos
Utilize Warranties and Service Discounts
Saving money by utilizing warranties and service contracts is another way to be a responsible car owner. Most new cars come with warranties that, for several years, provide coverage for some repairs and maintenance, protecting your wallet and allowing you to drive freely without worrying about problems.
I, for example, bought an extended warranty for my car that covers any significant repairs outside the manufacturer’s warranty, saving me thousands of dollars on unexpected repair issues such as a transmission problem that would have cost me thousands of dollars.
Moreover, I always look for discounts from car dealers for services such as oil changes or brake inspections, which, if I use them during their respective set seasons, allow me to keep up with the required maintenance at lower costs. With the help of the warranty and the discounts from service centers, my car is well taken care of in top condition at a low cost.
Mark McShane
Founder, Cupid Digital PR
Perform DIY Checks and Follow Schedules
To save money on vehicle maintenance, I recommend regular DIY checks and preventative care. For instance, I learned to change my car’s oil and air filters by watching tutorials online. Doing these simple tasks myself saved me a lot over time.
Another cost-effective strategy is to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule closely. I once delayed a brake pad replacement and ended up needing more expensive rotor repairs. Now, I stick to the schedule to avoid bigger, costlier problems.
Also, shopping around for parts and service deals helps. I found a local mechanic who offers quality service at half the price of the dealership. These small steps can significantly cut down your vehicle maintenance costs while keeping your car running smoothly.
Swena Kalra
Chief Marketing Officer, Scott & Yanling Media Inc.
Learn Routine Maintenance and Source Parts
One of the best ways to save money on personal vehicle maintenance is to handle routine tasks yourself. Changing the oil and oil filter, replacing air filters, and checking fluid levels can be done with basic tools and some know-how. This cuts costs significantly and ensures you know the job is done right.
A personal, cost-effective maintenance strategy I practice is purchasing quality parts online and learning how-to from reputable sources. For instance, I recently replaced brake pads, sourcing the parts at a fraction of the dealer’s price. This approach saves money and offers a deeper understanding of your vehicle, which can be invaluable in the long run.
Andrew Pickett
Founder and Lead Trial Attorney, Andrew Pickett Law
Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Keeping your tires properly inflated can save you a ton on gas and tire wear. Under-inflated tires make your car use more fuel and wear out faster. I keep a digital tire gauge in my glove compartment and check the tire pressure monthly. This small habit saves money on gas and helps my tires last longer.
Rhett Stubbendeck
CEO & Co-Founder, Leverage Planning
Adopt Efficient Vehicle Maintenance Strategies
Maintaining a personal vehicle efficiently can save a significant amount of money over time. Here are some tips that I follow to keep my car in good shape without breaking the bank:
- Clean the Engine Compartment – After winter, I wash the engine compartment to remove mud and industrial salt, which can cause corrosion and affect engine performance.
- Regular Fluid Checks – I regularly check and top up oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid to prevent costly damage to the engine and other components.
- Gearbox Oil Maintenance – I ensure gearbox oil is topped up or changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendation to avoid expensive repairs.
- Timely Oil Changes – I change the engine oil every 8,000-10,000 km or annually to ensure smooth performance, especially after winter.
- Smart Part Purchasing – I compare prices in stores and online to find the best deals on parts.
- Consider Used Parts – For non-critical components, I buy used parts from salvage yards or online marketplaces, ensuring they are in good condition and compatible with my vehicle.
- Invest in Quality Parts – I sometimes spend more on parts from trusted manufacturers, which last longer and perform better, reducing replacement frequency.
- Learn About Your Car – Knowing how my car works helps me spot potential issues early, preventing costly repairs.
- Smooth Driving – I avoid aggressive driving habits, using smooth acceleration and braking to extend the life of my car’s components.
By following these practices, I’ve managed to maintain my car efficiently and cost-effectively, ensuring it stays reliable without unnecessary expenses.
Senad Hajlovac
Project Coordinator
