Proper maintenance ensures the tip-top performance and condition of your car. Not to mention, it promotes a safer driving experience. In addition, it can prevent frequent repairs and replacements of defective parts. 

Maintaining a car, however, can cost you money. Depending on how you maintain your vehicle, it can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. Luckily, there are some ways to save money, including those we’ll share in this article.

1) Take the DIY Route

One thing that makes car maintenance expensive is the cost of labor. The price can vary depending on factors like location and the difficulty of the job. The more reputable and knowledgeable the mechanic is, the higher the cost can be. Hence, you can save money by doing regular maintenance on your own.

It can be intimidating at first, but it’s something that you can learn over time. Watch videos and read online guides. Invest in the right tools and be familiar with how they work. Ask a family or friend to guide you on the basic tasks you must learn. You might not get it overnight, but with patience, you’ll become a master of your craft.

Below is a list of car maintenance tasks you can do at home without paying a pro:

1. Checking and replacing lights
2. Inspecting tire conditions, including tread wear
3. Monitoring fluids, including oil and brake fluid
4. Regular inspection of brake pads
5. Changing engine and air filters
6. Replacing wiper blades
7. Checking battery health

2) Do Not Delay

Some people may not follow the recommended maintenance schedule of their vehicle because of one thing – their budget. You might not have the money to do it now or sooner, so you might delay it. However, this isn’t a good idea. The longer you wait, the worse the condition of your car can be. Hence, the more expensive the maintenance can cost.

Look for possible solutions if you’re running short of money to handle your car maintenance needs. For instance, consider an online loan service. This way, you can immediately access the cash you can use for car maintenance and repair, instead of delaying such. 

3) Read the Manual

The user manual is important but often ignored by many car owners. It contains several pages and blocks of texts, including graphics, which can be overwhelming for many people. Nonetheless, it’s a good idea to read it, especially when there is a problem or during scheduled maintenance.

The manual is a valuable resource that can provide basic maintenance tips. Some manuals are available online. They are written by experts, so you’re sure to learn a thing or two about how to keep your vehicle in its best possible shape.

4) Take Preventive Measures

An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. This saying holds true not only in our health but also in cars. A proactive approach can prevent tons of problems from being evident. It can spare you a headache and high car maintenance costs.

One of the best preventive measures is tire rotation. By repositioning the tires, you can minimize wear and promote a safer driving experience. More so, you should regularly check all fluids, ensuring they’re at the right level to optimize car performance. 

5) Use a Car Maintenance App

Are you finding it hard to track the maintenance needs of your vehicle? You might want to consider using a car maintenance app. It can keep service records and provide reminders, ensuring your maintenance stays on schedule. It can also monitor expenses, so you’ll know how much you’re spending on the upkeep of your car.

6) Buy Your Own Parts

As a part of regular car maintenance, you might need to replace some parts. Many of them can be costly, especially if you’re buying directly from the manufacturer or whatever the mechanic is supplying. A good alternative is to source these materials yourself. You can buy them online or search for aftermarket components from different stores. It will let you score the best deals possible.

7) Shop Around

Don’t be tempted to immediately settle with the first shop or mechanic you find to handle your maintenance needs. It’s best to shop around. List at least three choices within your community. Read reviews to evaluate the services they can offer. Ask for a quote and decide the most suitable for your needs and budget. Don’t forget to use your negotiation skills to arrive at a favorable price.

8) Conclusion 

Car maintenance can be costly, but it’s an expense you should not ignore. Otherwise, the consequences can be a burden, including repairing and replacing different components. Good thing, there are ways to save money while ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained. For instance, you can make maintenance a DIY task, sourcing the required parts from the right sellers, and shopping around to compare quotes from different mechanics or shops.