Minimizing the Cost of Car Maintenance

 

Like all complex machines, cars require regular maintenance to keep them humming along. The cost of car maintenance varies widely depending on the type and age of vehicle, the climate in which it is driven, how often you drive it, and other factors. Some repairs are inevitable, but many can be avoided with proper care.

The most important step in minimizing your car maintenance costs is to follow the recommended schedule in your owner’s manual. It will tell you how often to get your oil changed, rotate your tires, and replace other fluids and components. Sticking to this routine will save you money on costly inspections, repairs, and replacements.

While you are at it, make a copy of your car’s service history. Use a notebook or the blank pages in the back of your owner’s manual to record oil changes, tire rotations, fluid flushes, and other car maintenance. This will help you keep track of the work you have done and will ensure that the next time something needs to be done, you’ll remember.

If you don’t have an owner’s manual, you can also find your car maintenance schedule online. You can even download a free app that will remind you when it’s time to schedule your next car appointment.

You will also need to know how to troubleshoot some basic problems. For example, if your check engine light comes on, it’s a good idea to bring the car in for a diagnostic test. It may be a simple problem, such as a blown fuse, that can easily be fixed by replacing the fuse. You can learn how to do this yourself, or you can ask your mechanic for advice.

If your car is stuck in mud or snow, it’s best not to keep trying to rock it free. This can damage expensive components such as the transmission or clutch. Gently rocking your car can also cause the tires to lose their grip and blow out, so it’s a good idea to have some traction aid in your trunk.

It’s also a good idea to inspect your exterior regularly for cracks in the windshield, paint chips, and other issues. This will give you a chance to make repairs before they worsen and become more costly.

Some components have shorter than expected operational lifespans, and while they may be more expensive to replace than others, it can sting less when spread over the life of your car. For instance, a new alternator might run you $500 or more, but it’s still likely to be cheaper than replacing your battery or alternator belt.

Don’t rely on the quick-lube guys or your dealer to let you know when your car is due for an inspection or repair. Instead, pop open your glove box or jockey box and pull out your owner’s manual. It will list the manufacturer’s suggested car maintenance schedule, which will tell you when to change your oil, rotate your tires, and replace other parts and fluids.