5 Simple Ways To Reduce Spending On Your Car

Many people are looking for ways to save money this year. One of the biggest areas of expense in daily life can be transport — and especially costs associated with our cars.

Saving money on your car can be an important and effective way to manage your overall budget. It also means that you can get the best use and the most longevity from your vehicle. Cars have often been a significant financial investment, so ensuring that we are not regularly or unconsciously overspending on them can be a great habit to adopt.

Below is a compilation of five simple and effective ways that you can reduce your spending on your car today!

1) Maintenance: Do Little And Often

Many of us are tempted to avoid servicing our car until there is a serious problem that has to be fixed urgently. The problem with this approach is that, by the time we do book in for a service, the problem has often worsened so much that it becomes a major expense to fix.

This means that we end up spending a large lump sum on an urgent issue — potentially derailing our budget in the process, or even having to consider selling our car.

A more positive and proactive approach is to approach maintenance from the ‘little and often’ perspective. Regular small services can help to identify issues before they have the chance to become a major problem.

Although we may still have to spend money on our services, some are also offered for free — such as brake checks and more. Several small services, even the ones at a cost, may still a more manageable financial approach than having to pay a large bill all at once.

2) Drive Less

While it may seem an obvious solution, an easy and immediate way to spend less on your car and travel bills is to drive less! You can search for alternative methods of transport such as buses, cabs, or car-pooling.

You may also wish to walk or cycle more, such as for a health and fitness incentive at work or to kickstart healthy routines.

Consider only using your car for essential journeys, or even working remotely if your circumstances allow, to reduce the need for a commute.

There are a wide variety of reasons why many people are now choosing to drive less — whether environmental, financial, or more. They still get value out of owning a car, but reduce their use of it and save money in the process.

3) Drive More Efficiently

Even small changes can have a huge impact, and this is especially true of the way you drive. Simply driving more efficiently could significantly reduce your fuel bill over time, as well as reduce the wear and tear on your car overall.

Driving more efficiently encompasses a wide range of tips and tricks, from selecting the right fuel and gear, to reducing your speed and wind resistance, anticipating the road ahead, and more.

Research a few tips on more efficient driving, incorporate them into your routine, and your budget will soon reap the rewards!

4) Switch to Electric

If your circumstances permit, consider switching your current car to an electric or hybrid model. Studies show that these are often more cost-effective choices over time. This is because they are often easier or cheaper to maintain, use less fuel, and may even be eligible for certain financial benefits such as tax relief.

There are more choices of electric car available than ever before at a range of price points, and their mileage is significantly improving.

For those serious about reducing their transport budget and helping the environment in the process, electric vehicles may be the very best solution.

5) Use Comparison Websites

There are many costs associated with your car, including tax, insurance, maintenance, and more. If possible, be sure to regularly check comparison websites and research existing offers and deals.

This can save you a significant amount of money on your transport budget, and helps to ensure that you are always getting the best deal and coverage for your circumstances.

Be sure to check in advance whether there are any penalties (or positives and incentives!) for switching, and don’t be afraid to shop around before making a decision.

With the tips above and an active approach, you may be able to rapidly cut your car and transport budget!