According to a major news source, the average American spends more than an hour and a half behind the wheel each day. More for regular commuters, and far more for parents. It comes as no surprise, then, that automotive expenses are the second highest expense for over 90% of Americans – the percentage of people who report that they drive as their primary mode of transportation. 
Shop Like It’s Your Job
Let’s spend a little time exploring some ways to save money on car expenses. Automotive services are a competitive market, and the result of that is that there is considerable benefit to the car owner who spends time shopping around for options.
First off, you can save money over the lifetime of vehicle ownership by buying wisely. Investigate the performance of the vehicles you’re looking at driving off the lot not just in the way they feel while driving – but by the way they perform in the years they spend in your control. A more expensive vehicle may save you money in the long run due to less need for maintenance and lower gas mileage. At the buying stage, you can also save a considerable sum of money by shopping around for the lowest interest loan prior to your agreeing on a sale or even seriously considering one. Most importantly, you should buy the car you can afford. It is recommended that you not choose car payments that exceed 20% of your monthly paycheck.
If It Ain’t Broken…
Once you’re the owner, you’re responsible for operating costs and maintenance. This aspect of car ownership is where most car owners pass up the most money-saving opportunities. Preventative maintenance, performed by a reputable and trusted mechanic or by the dealership which sold you the vehicle, is critical to keeping operating costs to a minimum. Mindful driving is just as important. Don’t step on it at every opportunity. This keeps your gas tank fuller and results in less wear and tear on the vehicle. Nearly a third of operating costs, for most drivers, comes from the insurance policy. Even if you think you’re sitting on a decent policy with a low-enough premium – comparison shop. It very well may be worth your time.
Responsible car ownership, the kind of ownership that results in the lowest cost of driving, is a part time job. Your responsibilities include maintenance, good driving, and regular comparison shopping for both irregular and regular car services. Go ahead and see if you can’t lower your automotive costs by fifty bucks this coming month. We bet you can.