10 Tricks to Save Thousands on Your Car

Cars can be costly investments, but with a little foresight and tips you can seriously save on exactly how much you invest. For starters, most people don’t know the various dashboard light meanings—and they don’t need to. Consider it a sign that something’s not right, and just like your own well-being, it’s important to get things checked as quickly as possible. Ignoring problems is a surefire way to progress to a costly car repair.

Here are ten ways to save big on car repair:

Get regular maintenance checks.

You wouldn’t skip seeing the doctor for years, so why treat your car in a similar manner? Get a maintenance checkup at least once per year.

Rotate your tires.

This should be included in maintenance checks, but if not make sure it gets done. Tires are expensive, and the best way to preserve them is via rotation.

Put the right gas in your car.

There really is a difference between premium and regular, though not all cars require premium. However, if yours does, consider it an investment that will save you big bucks in the future.

Keep your vehicle clean and dry.

A car wash doesn’t only make your car look better, but it can also preserve the paint. Dust and grime can wear away at paint jobs, and if you notice bird droppings clean them up immediately. It’s a material that’s especially acidic.

Think twice before taking your own car on a road trip.

The more you use your car, the more wear and tear it will sustain. If you’d like to keep your car working better longer, consider renting a car for longer road trips.

Avoid the sun.

Whenever possible, park your car in the shade or a garage. Sun exposure can do serious damage to cars, especially during the hot summer months. Avoiding it is the best way to preserve your paint job.

Practice good driving skills.

Sudden braking and speeding up puts unnecessary wear on your vehicle. Try to maintain a fluid speed and give your vehicle plenty of time to brake. If you think of your vehicle like you do your body, you’ll get the right idea.

Use seat covers.

Whether you have cloth or leather seats, they put up with a lot of abuse. Seat covers are an inexpensive way to preserve them.

Add a steering wheel cover to your vehicle.

Your hands carry grime, sunscreen, sweat, and more on them. Steering wheels are surprisingly expensive to replace, so protect your steering wheel.

Plan ahead if you have a luxury car.

A luxury car isn’t just expensive to buy but is also expensive to maintain. Make sure you have the financial well-being to afford the upkeep.

Your car is your independence and sometimes your home away from home on long commutes. Safeguard it and do what you can to preserve its value.