In the cost-of-living crisis, affording everyday motoring can feel like an impossible task.
Despite data from recent months suggesting that used car prices are falling, drivers still face exceptionally steep costs. With prices for insurance, fuel, and maintenance driven up by the perpetually high inflation rate, owning a car is now brutally expensive.
Driving is still a modern necessity, especially for commuters and families. There are a few handy tactics that make things more affordable, which we’ve explained in our quick guide below.
Four steps towards cheaper motoring
- Do your research
If you’re looking to buy another car soon, it’s important to secure a good deal.
Do your research, ask about the car’s service history, and check MOT history online. This provides invaluable peace of mind that the car has no pre-existing and potentially costly issues. Lower mileage is also desirable, but you can compromise if the car shows clear signs of being reliable despite its mileage. This is especially true for diesel motors.
Buying a good used car also leads to spending less money on repairs. Whether it’s a quality used Citroën or your first electric car, it’s crucial to choose carefully and buy from a trusted dealer.
- Don’t drive everywhere
Try not to succumb to laziness. If you live close to work or school, or the bus takes the same route as your commute, there’s no excuse to drive every time.
Whether you choose one set day of the week to walk or only drive if it’s raining, limiting the use of your car could help to preserve its value and save you money on fuel too. Only driving short distances could do more harm than good, especially if you drive a car with a diesel engine.
- Learn basic car maintenance
When it comes to maintaining your car, knowing how to keep on top of the basics will serve you and your budget well. From topping up your screen wash and coolant to keeping the car clean, there are so many things you can do at home. Regular washing is the best way to prevent rusting on your car by removing dirt and debris.
Topping up your tyres is one of the most important things you can do. Your car will only deliver optimum fuel efficiency with the correct tyre pressure: underinflated tyres make your engine work harder, while overinflation leads to decreased tyre life.
- Drive sensibly
Paying attention to the way you drive could help you save money. From accelerating gently to choosing the right gear, habits that seem small can determine how much fuel your car uses.
Furthermore, it’s hardly surprising that thrashing your car all the time could lead to exaggerated wear and tear on moving parts. Several mechanical components inside cars are consumable, so you should do everything possible to prolong their efficiency. Go steady and aim for a consistent speed.
Overview
Saving on your motoring costs isn’t as simple as buying the cheapest fuel you can find.
You should make a proactive effort to learn about your car, work towards a better fuel economy, and maintain your car at home too. With these habits combined, you’ll be a more responsible motorist – and you’d be surprised at how much you could save.