For many people, especially those who live in big cities, the cost of a personal car is a very noticeable part of the monthly budget. Below, we offer 10 tips that can help save on them.
1. Reduce ongoing relocation costs
An arrangement between friends or neighbors to alternate using their cars for shared needs is becoming more and more common in many nations. Use every chance to go for a walk, a bike ride, or a public transportation. Travel and business should be combined; this will also save time. By avoiding the habit of hopping in the car every time you need to go to the store, using public transportation and walking will also help you plan out your movements more carefully. Fewer trips theoretically result in lower costs because, in addition to the aforementioned benefits, you won't be tempted to make impulsive purchases.
2. Study the offers of insurance companies
Spend a little time and study the websites of insurance companies, make a couple of calls. This should be done annually to be sure that you take advantage of the best offer. Don't forget to ask about discounts and loyalty programs. Without the involvement of intermediaries in insurance, by contacting the central office directly, you can save up to 20% of the cost of insurance, checked on personal experience.
3. Try not to buy a completely new car (or thoroughly approach your choice).
Please refrain from removing the car "from the conveyor." Immediately after purchasing a new car, immediately after leaving the dealership, discard 20% of its value. I won't have to remind you that credit is used to purchase the majority of new cars. Some lenders load you with a full-fledged CASCO policy for the duration of the loan and refuse to release the vehicle's passport until you pay them off. In six months, the new car smell will no longer be present, and you will continue to overpay for it.
But if you decide to buy a new car, carefully study the reviews of the model you want. Call the insurance company and ask how much the CASCO policy will cost. You know exactly how much you can spend. Watch out for discounts and sales—often at the end of the year, dealers sell off stocks at a good discount to free up space for new models.
When buying a new car, carefully consider the various options. You can save a lot on comfort, but do not save on safety. We also recommend reading the article: Tricks when buying a new car.
4. Buy a used car
First, there's nothing wrong with buying a used car. A used car will last a very long time if you handle it carefully. And you will save more than a thousand hryvnias without buying a new car.
The main thing to do when choosing a used car is to consult with someone familiar who is well versed in cars. Surely, you have such a friend or colleague at work; do not hesitate to ask for help. Ideally, it's a good idea to enlist the advice of a professional auto mechanic.
5. Don't let the machine eat up all your money.
You can perform some straightforward repairs on your own. For example, replace a burned-out headlight bulb, for instance, or add oil. Here, you can find a number of driver forums that are stuffed to the gills with information about all manner of operations. Finding a trustworthy and sincere auto mechanic is your best option, though, if you are completely devoid of mechanical aptitude. It is not unnecessary to ask friends and acquaintances for recommendations because a good mechanic is similar to a good doctor. However, speaking with an official dealer will cost you money because they are not used to giving customers discounts.
6. Spend less on gasoline
Explore petrol stations and their prices near your home. Choose the one that offers the lowest price, but there is no doubt about the quality of fuel - in our country, cheap gasoline and high-quality gasoline are most often not found at the same gas station at the same time.
Try to drive more slowly and avoid sharp accelerations. Plan your trips in advance. Try not to carry unnecessary heavy objects in the car. Keep an eye on the correct tire pressure.
7. Optimize your public transport costs
Employers frequently provide reimbursement for a portion of the cost of public transportation. Find out if such a plan works for you by asking your superiors or coworkers. Do you use a vehicle frequently to get around? Avoid splurging on a plane ticket! Compared to a taxi, it will be quicker and more efficient.
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Lifestyle