You can reduce car costs by following the tips below. Owning and driving a car is expensive, but you can cut car costs.
The biggest costs of driving are depreciation, maintenance and fuel. The prices of fuel fluctuate strongly, but calculated over several years, the costs are increasing. When buying a new car, you write off thousands of euros when the car is no longer new. Maintenance costs increase with age and fuel costs depend on usage. You also have the road tax and insurance premiums. All measures that reduce costs are welcome.
Refuel for the lowest price
A difference of a few cents per liter used can save a lot of money on a refueling. Go for the cheapest petrol pump, and don’t be tempted by savings promotions from the top brands. The fuel has the same quality everywhere. With unmanned petrol pumps you can often save 5 cents or more per liter.
Drive cheaper with LPG or diesel
Most people drive on petrol, but if you drive a lot of miles, LPG or diesel is cheaper. It is often thought that you have to drive at least 20,000 kilometers in the year to switch to LPG or diesel, but in most cars this is lower. You can make a comparison by calculating the price difference of the fuel and the number of kilometers you drive. You have to take into account that the consumption of a diesel car is lower.
The tires must have the correct pressure
Driving around with insufficient air in the tires can increase gas mileage by five percent. How hard the tires should be differs per car. The maintenance booklet indicates which tire pressure is correct.
Trade in a car at high maintenance costs
A car with high maintenance costs should be disposed of as soon as possible. The costs often remain high. This often applies to older cars. Over time, more and more parts have to be replaced. The maintenance costs of one brand are also higher than the maintenance costs of another brand. By buying a car from a decent brand, you have a smaller chance of high maintenance costs on average.
Do not use the car for short distances
Using the car for short distances results in a high fuel consumption, but is also bad for the car.
Lower maintenance costs through a cheaper garage
Maintenance costs incurred by the dealer are generally higher than the maintenance costs at a Bovag garage. The dealer may have more knowledge about your car, but a Bovag garage also has the knowledge to properly maintain your car.
Save on car insurance
The differences in the premiums that car insurers charge for insurance are large. They offer comparable cover at very different prices. You can easily compare the prices of the insurers on the internet. You can make such a calculation within five minutes. If you wish to switch, you can simply contact the new insurer. They will also help you cancel the old insurance.