Knowing how to keep your vehicle running in top shape on a budget is one of our number one questions from friends, family and readers. Since we posted about why we keep our older van instead of buying new, many people want to know if they can afford to do the same thing. For most people trying to find financial freedom, they realize fast that the two largest expenses each month are their mortgage and their vehicle payment. Eliminating one will help considerably in the struggle to get out of debt and these tips definitely help make that happen. Check out all of our Spending Freeze posts.
How To Keep Your Vehicle Running In Top Shape On A Budget
Do regular basic maintenance. Those little things do add up over time, and they can truly make or break your cars length of use. Things like regular oil changes, filter changes, a routine transmission flush, radiator flush and little things like spark plugs being replaced are all important. These basic maintenance things are simple to accomplish, and in the long-run can save you thousands of dollars. Some basic things like changing your own oil, filters and spark plugs are easy to do with a few guides for your vehicle and an afternoon out in the driveway. Other things like transmission flush and radiator flush are things that need a mechanics experience to accomplish. Make sure to track your vehicle maintenance by using our free Printable Family Binder.
Shop around for the best deal. A shade tree mechanic can often be an amazing find when it comes to your mechanical needs, however there are usually little to no warranties with this method. Consider their reputation, referrals and price before using that neighbor down the street to work on your car or truck. You may also consider getting quotes from multiple chain auto shops, or small mom and pop operations. Midas, Pep Boys, Western Auto and similar locations will often have special rates, coupons or even loyal customer programs that save you money. Remember there is power in shopping around to find a better deal. You may be able to go back to your preferred shop with a quote from another location that is lower and negotiate for the lower rate from the team you trust.
Take a class to do it yourself. Did you know that many community colleges and local vocational schools have auto mechanic classes you can take for as low as $150? My husband just replaced our front breaks and rotors and saved us hundreds of dollars. If you have an older vehicle that may need routine maintenance, you’ll want to be able to shave some costs and make the most of it for as long as possible. A small up front investment to go to a local school and learn a few things about basic mechanics can be a huge investment in your financial future. Plus, if you go for the full certificate program, you could add that to your list of side hustles to make money and become a shade tree mechanic for your friends.
These tips along with basic things like rotating your tires regularly, using our tips for saving on gas and just being cautious about how you drive and where will help extend the life of your vehicle saving you a ton of money in your household budget.
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