The American transportation system is abysmal, which is why thousands of Americans avoid public transportation during the morning commutes and nights on the town. From commuting to work, making weekly grocery store runs, or even visiting friends and family, over 76% of people say they couldn’t maintain their social lives or complete routine tasks if they didn’t own a car.
Due to our reliance on cars to get us where we need to be, the average American spends between $300 to $500 per month on car payments. With steep monthly car payments overwhelming bank accounts nationwide, drivers are always looking for ways to save money, and one of the best ways is to purchase replacement car parts.
Related: How to Cut Your Car Loan Payment Time in Half
The Complete Guide to Saving Money on Car-Related Expenses
If your vehicle is riddled with ongoing issues and resembles a bottomless money pit, you’ll need to employ creative cost-cutting strategies. Otherwise, time spent idling at bus stops and worming your way through jam-packed subways could be your inevitable doom.
With these high stakes in mind, you’ll need to address replacement part needs with cost reduction in mind. The first question to ask yourself, is there a pick-a-part near me? The next question is, what else can you do to reduce the cost of car expenses?
Opt for used car parts
One of the best ways to save money on costly car repairs is to scavenge your auto salvage yard for used car parts that can compete with brand-new replacements. Additionally, search for parts built specifically for your car.
When cars are totaled or have an issue that isn’t worth fixing, they often rehomed to an auto salvage yard. These lots are chalked full of automobiles ready to be taken apart by consumers who need the part in their vehicle.
For instance, if your Ram 1500 has a broken door handle, ordering a new one through a dealership or repair center can be quite costly. Instead of ordering a part through the dealer or your repair company, you can head to your local auto salvage yard. There, you can look for a Ram 1500 on their lot, and once you find it, you can purchase the usable handle for an unbeatable price.
Related: 3 Must Know Tips for Buying a New Car
Keep up with routine maintenance
Significant repairs are one of the most expensive costs included in vehicle ownership, but you can often avoid these costly events if you keep up with the scheduled maintenance. Periodically, check your brake pads, timing belts, fluids, and any other parts that your owner’s manual recommends that you replace. While responsible car owners should opt to purchase items like the brake pads, timing belts, and fluids should new from your local auto store, vehicle owners can turn to used car parts found at your local auto salvage yard.
Change filters yourself
Anytime you take your car in for an oil change, they will likely try to peddle new filters for your automobile. Filters are essential, and when they are old and dirty, they can reduce gas mileage by up to 10%. Wherever you go to get your oil changed will charge you above market price for a filter and an installation fee. Lucky for you, replacing or cleaning the filter on your own is a straightforward task to complete, and doing it on your own is an excellent way to save a few bucks.
Related: Saving for a Car – Why You Should Drive Your Car Until It Dies
Check Your Tires
Tires play a large role in determining the miles per gallon. Not to mention, they keep your car firmly planted to the ground while driving in most conditions. Despite their importance, many drivers fail to check their tire depth or each tire’s condition frequently, and because of this, avoidable accidents and subpar gas mileage occur.
Start each week off by checking the tread depth, the condition, and the PSI on each of your tires. Each of these aspects seriously impacts your tires’ functionality, and if there are any issues, you risk getting into an accident and spending more money than you needed to.
Final thoughts
Don’t turn a blind eye to auto repairs that drain your bank account at record speed. Instead, reevaluate what car-related expenses are essential costs and adjust accordingly.
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