Auto repair costs are probably some of the biggest expenses on your monthly budget. They come up when you least expect them and even when you do expect them, they are going to cost you an arm and a leg to get done. You could easily be spending this money on more important things like paying down on those credit cards or saving up for that vacation of your dreams. However, there’s no reason that you should be spending so much money on auto repairs. There are plenty of ways that you can cut down on auto repair expenses if you keep reading down below for the top tips to do just that. These tips are going to seriously help you cut your costs and keep more money around for more important things. Read on!
1. Be Sure to Read the Owner’s Manual Carefully
Most of the times, the answer to your questions about how to save money on auto repair can be found right in your glovebox. The owner’s manual of your specific make and model is going to have all the information you need about recommended maintenance and things to watch out for. That’s because every car is different and some cars have different needs than others. When you familiarize yourself with some of the information in the owner’s manual, you will be more prepared to maintain your car and cut down on any repairs that might pop up.
2. Only Use the Best Auto Repair Shops You Can Find
You shouldn’t be going to just any auto shop that you find to get your regular maintenance done. This is the same with any other service that you are using. Would you go to just any dentist down the road to get your teeth fixed? Or would you choose any doctor to get that surgery done? Of course not. You should be looking for the best possible auto shop to conduct repairs and maintenance on your car. Take a look online and see which auto shops in your area have the best reviews or check with your friends and family members to see which shops are the best.
3. Do the Maintenance That You Don’t Think You Need to Do
Make sure to know what kinds of maintenance are required on your car and which are recommended. Most of the times, you might not think that you have to do all of the maintenance on your car. However, it’s best to do everything that’s recommended to keep your car running for longer and keep it out of the auto shop. If you care for your car, you’re going to end up spending way less in the future for repairs and maintenance.
4. Always Be Aware of The Warning Signs That Your Car Gives You
Whenever the “Check Engine” light comes on or any other signal turns on, make sure to take your car to the shop right away. There’s no reason why you should wait too long to get things checked out. These lights come on for a reason and aren’t just there for show! The longer you wait to get your car checked out and get the problem solved, the worse the issue will become and more costly repairs could be. That’s why it’s best to be aware of what’s going on with your car.
5. You Could Always Do It Yourself Sometimes, Rather Than Going to An Auto Shop
In fact, one of the absolute best ways to save money on auto repairs is to just do it yourself, rather than heading to the auto shop. If the auto shop repair price estimate is way too high, then this might be your best bet. Many people believe that only the professionals at the auto shop can conduct the regular maintenance on their cars or do some repairs. However, if you have the skills and knowledge to do it yourself, then go for it! This is a great way to cut the costs of going to an auto shop and get your hands dirty a bit.
6. Check Online to See What Discounted Parts You Can Get Your Hands On
If you are going to be doing the work yourself, there are probably going to be some parts you need to get. However, there’s no reason for you to buy these parts brand new from the store. You can easily search online to see what kinds of discounted parts are available. A lot of the times, used cars have their parts taken off and discounted to seriously low prices. When you buy these parts, you are going to be saving tons of money that you might have wasted on a brand-new part.
7. Don’t Change Your Oil Every 3,000 Miles Like Recommended
It’s been shown that the old rule of changing motor oil every 3,000 miles is not true anymore. It’s more like 5,000 to 7,500 miles that you should change your oil. The old rule was made in the 70s when cars were not that efficient and engines couldn’t take the high pressure. Now that our cars have much more efficient engines and much better oil products, you don’t have to worry about changing your oil every 3,000 miles. This is going to save you some serious money!
8. Be Sure to Shop Around to Get the Best Price for You
If you are going to be shopping around for various auto shops or you’re trying to find discounted parts/products, then be sure to really shop around. There are going to be tons of shops that provide products or services for various prices. Just like any other purchase that you need to make, it’s best to find the shop that’s going to provide you what you need at the best price for you.
9. Use Local Shops Around Your Town, Rather Than the Big Chain Shops
One of the best ways to save money is to use local auto shops that are around your town, rather than any of those chain shops you see around. Most national auto shops are super overpriced and come with tons of extra fees you have to pay. When you use a local auto shop, there prices are normally lower and the service is much higher and more personal.
Each of these points are seriously going to help you save money on your auto repair expenses. Make sure to remember them and your wallet is going to be happy!
