“Where did all my money go?” It’s a question I have asked
myself more than I’d like to admit. I often find myself wondering where all
those extra expenses came from, and it seems that no matter how much I make,
there are always additional costs that creep up on me.
I imagine I am not the
only one in the world who feels this way. Money is hard to come by, and it can
be frustrating when it seems to want to be anywhere but in your wallet.
The last thing most of us want to do is see our money go to the
sudden, unexpected purchase of a new car. After all, those things just are not
cheap. I would much rather see those funds go to something just a bit more
important (food comes to mind right about now.)
To keep a little more green in all of our pockets,
here are some tips to maintain the vehicle you currently own. Regular
maintenance can have long-lasting effects that will keep it running for years
to come.
1. Give It a Little TLC
Like with any human being, vehicles need a little tender, loving
care. They need to know they aren’t forgotten in the crazy hustle
and bustle that is your everyday life. As a vehicle owner, you need to set a
schedule that will ensure proper maintenance on your vehicle. This includes
regular air filter changes and tire changes.
This involves checking the air
pressure in your tires and the tread as well. It means being aware of your
vehicle and the wear and tear it is experiencing before anything becomes a bit
issue.
In addition, TLC involves simple interior cleaning. Shine up
that dashboard and vacuum regularly. Nothing ruins an interior more quickly
than mashed-up crumbs deep in the carpet or fruit punch spilled on the back
seat. Keeping food and drink out of your car can go a long way to preserve it.
2. Change Fluids Regularly
I am embarrassed to admit that I completely failed at this one
with my first car. As a new college student, I was just so thrilled to have a
car that I neglected to upkeep it in any way.
This is particularly true with
the fluids. I can honestly say I don’t remember changing them once while I had
it. And it lasted about two years before overheating and dying. Moral of the
story? If you want your car to last, change the fluids in your car regularly. You
can either do it yourself (if you are up to the challenge) or simply take it
into a shop. But get it done.
3. Check Out Those Noises
Have you ever been in a car with friends and heard a nice
clunking noise or “squeeeeel!”? Did your friend do something about it that
involved more than simply turning up the radio a bit louder? Get those noises
checked out immediately. It may be a pain at the moment, and it may cost you a little
money, but it’s such a better idea than letting the small problem grow into a
large problem later down the road.
4. Find a Reliable Mechanic
Some of us are so lucky as to have friends or family members
who are car mechanics. If this is you, I hope you
realize just how lucky you are. If you don’t have this option, do your homework
before taking your car to the shop.
Mechanics sometimes have the reputation of
taking a car owner “for a ride.” So shop around. Ask for recommendations from
family and friends. Ask who will give a fair price for reliable service. A
little homework before you ever enter the shop can save you a lot of green.
5. Educate Yourself on the Workings of Your Car
Become familiar with the inner workings of your vehicle. In
this way, you can also save yourself when at the shop. Those who are
knowledgeable about their vehicles will not be taken advantage of (or will be
less likely to be) by mechanics.
In addition, you may learn so much that you
can begin to do the repairs and maintenance yourself. My spouse and I recently
changed the brakes on my vehicle, which opened our eyes to just how much
mechanics sometimes charge. We saved a good two hundred dollars.
6. Reduce Gas Costs
Reduce your gas costs. Now we all know that gas doesn’t come
cheap, but there are a couple of things you can do to make the burden a bit
lighter. First, shop around. Mentally
take note of gas prices as you drive through town, as they are constantly
changing. Find a reliable gas station with inexpensive gas.
Second, drive nicely. When you accelerate quickly, it can actually reduce your
gas mileage, forcing you to fill up on more of a regular basis. So before you
put that “pedal to the metal,” think about those hard-earned dollars and
accelerate at a more gradual pace.
7. Shop Around for Insurance
And finally, shop around for insurance. Compare green slips to find the best deal and what
will work best for you. Make informed decisions about other insurances such as
vehicle insurance. And be a good driver. Some insurances actually reduce costs
for those who drive well, so there is no reason not to become a better driver,
which will keep the roads safer and you just a bit richer.
In conclusion, maintaining a vehicle doesn't just preserve its longevity; it also safeguards your financial well-being by preventing unexpected expenses. Regular TLC, fluid changes, addressing unusual noises promptly, and finding a reliable mechanic are crucial steps in this regard. Moreover, educating yourself about your car's workings empowers you to make informed decisions and potentially save on costly repairs.
Efforts to reduce gas costs through mindful driving and shopping around for insurance further contribute to long-term savings. By implementing these tips, you not only extend the lifespan of your vehicle but also mitigate the risk of financial strain associated with unexpected repairs or replacements.
Ultimately, the conscientious care of your vehicle is an investment in both its longevity and your financial stability. With diligence and awareness, you can enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained vehicle while keeping more money in your pocket for other essential expenses.
