Car maintenance is crucial to keep your vehicle in good condition, ensuring its reliability on the road. It also helps you save money on car repair or replacement while prolonging the life of your automobile.
Another benefit of car maintenance lies in good resale value. If you want to sell it later, you may command a reasonable price and easily find buyers looking for quality used cars.
Now, who wouldn’t want to save money on car repairs? To help you maximize your car investment, get behind effective car maintenance practices.
7 Tips to Help You Save Money on Car Repairs
You can do many things to keep your vehicle in good shape. With some elbow grease and studying, you can keep your car running and avoid unnecessary repairs. Here are some tips on how to save money on car maintenance.
1. Read the owner’s manual
Not everyone reads an owner’s manual, thinking perhaps they’re familiar with their car well enough to know what to do. Unfortunately, one wrong move can create significant damage, which can be costlier to repair. As such, it’s a mistake not to consult that nifty little car book.
The owner’s manual provides valuable information about operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your car. Everything you need to know about the ins and outs of your vehicle is in the manual, and taking the time to read it can save you a lot of trouble.
2. Wash your car regularly
Your car is under constant exposure to dirt, dust, and other debris. These things can cause chips, scratches, or faded paint. Before that happens, regularly clean your car to decrease the likelihood of an external car repair.
Besides cosmetic protection, routine cleanings enable you to spot potential issues like dents, rust, and leaks that can cost you money if left unchecked or unattended.
3. Change the oil within reasonable intervals
Oil changes are integral to maintaining a car’s condition, helping lubricate engine parts to reduce friction, heat, or wear and tear. Fresh oil can also improve fuel efficiency and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
For the record, changing the engine oil every 3,000 miles is an outdated benchmark, thanks to improved motor oil formulations and better car engineering. Nowadays, you can schedule oil changes between 5,000 and 7,500 miles, depending on the car manufacturer. You can find the ideal oil change intervals in your car manual.
4. Don’t spend money on premium fuel
Premium fuel boasts higher octane levels than its regular counterparts, making it more stable. While owners of luxury vehicles prefer premium fuel for its performance-boosting capabilities, everyday cars don’t need it.
If your vehicle manufacturer recommends regular fuel, then stick to it. Buying expensive gas won’t benefit your car.
5. Go to local shops
Big car shops are not necessarily your best option for car repair services. While their reputation may be outstanding, you could get the same quality from local shops without the hefty price tag. Mechanics from local shops can provide personalized services since they can only accommodate a certain number of customers. You only need to research where or how to find them.
6. Pay attention to your battery
On average, a car battery’s lifespan is three to five years with proper maintenance. If you notice that starting your car takes longer than usual, this may indicate a weak battery. Other warning signs include dim headlights, deformed battery cases, or leaking fluids.
To check your battery, use a voltage meter or visit your local maintenance shop for expert advice. Don’t immediately replace your battery since a simple jumpstart can quickly fix a discharged one.
7. Never ignore check engine warnings
A check engine light lets you know when there’s something wrong with your car, whether it’s the emission control system, spark plug wires, or gas cap. Whatever the case, you should check the possible source of the problem or visit a car maintenance facility for professional service.
Save on Car Care and Maintenance
Car repairs can be costly, forcing you to pay for expensive service fees and car parts. You don’t want that, especially if you plan to get a second-hand car loan in the Philippines. The good news is you can avoid unnecessary car repairs by following these car maintenance tips.
For loans for personal or business use, consider Asialink Finance Corporation. As the Philippines’ premier online financing company, Asialink Finance has car collateral loans to assist you. For further inquiries, contact us today!
- 7 Credit Score Myths DEBUNKED! - April 29, 2024
- How to Talk about Money with Your Partner: 7 Tips - April 24, 2024
- Truck Maintenance Checklist: 14 Ways to Keep Your Truck in Top Shape - December 20, 2023
