9 Money-Saving Tips Drivers Should Know

Owning a car is a huge expense. The initial payment you make at the dealership is nothing compared to the fuel, insurance and maintenance costs down the line. So before you purchase a car, make sure you’re committed to the regular charges that come with it.

Luckily, there are some simple ways to save cash when it comes to your car. These tips may not seem like much on their own, but small savings can add up over time. Here’s how you can cut your car costs.

1. Get 5% cashback on fuel purchases

Fuel will likely be the most expensive long term cost of having a car. But did you know that you can get cash back when you fill her up? There are many promos and cashback options floating around the market. Even if you only get a small fraction of your money back, this can save you big bucks, especially considering how often you buy fuel. So it’s definitely worth checking out your local deals.

2. Buy economical tyres

Many drivers don’t realise that their tyres can significantly impact fuel consumption. Next time your tyres need replacing, opt for economical versions. Don’t be tempted to go for the cheapest model. These won’t perform at the same level as good quality tyres, and tests have proven that they often increase stopping distance and can negatively affect your handling. If you look at the big picture, you’ll see that this choice will only cost you in the long run.

3. Don’t pay extra for premium fuel

You’ve probably noticed the so-called “premium” fuel options when you fill up at the servo. Merchants claim that these fuels offer performance and economy advantages, while cleaning and protecting your engine. In reality, unless you’re driving a performance vehicle, you’re unlikely to see any tangible improvements by paying extra for fuel with a higher octane (petrol) or cetane (diesel) rating. So save your pennies and choose the more basic options, which will do the job perfectly fine.

4. Drive gently when the car is cold

When it’s cold, your car is operating at its least efficient state. If it’s chilly outside, let your engine heat up for a few minutes before you start revving it up. If you hop right in and turn on the ignition before your car has had a chance to warm up, you’ll waste precious fuel and you might even wear out the engine in the process.

5. Check your tyre pressures

You should regularly check your tyre pressure for many reasons, one of them being fuel economy. Remember that for every 10 degrees the temperature drops, tyre pressure can reduce by one to two PSI. Make check the pressure when the tyres are cool and the car hasn’t been driven in several hours for the most accurate reading.

6. Hunt out cheap fuel

Fuel prices can fluctuate considerably between service stations. So it’s worth your while checking out the competition before filling your tank. Driving out of your way is a false economy however, so keep it local. Another pro saving tip is to collect supermarket and servo loyalty cards. The more you fill up, the more points you’ll accrue, which can be exchanged for fuel vouchers.

7. Use apps to find cheap parking spaces

Parking is another irritating expense that comes with a car, especially if you live in the city where the prices can be exorbitant. So be smart about where you park. There are lots of apps available for download that tell you where the cheapest, nearest space is. Avoiding city parking fees can save you a small fortune.  

8. Take an advanced driving course

Did you know that you can save money by adjusting your driving technique? Advance courses will teach you how to hypermile and other cost-cutting tricks. Hypermiling is a style of driving as economically as possible.

9. Empty your boot and ditch the roof rack

The heavier your vehicle, the harder it has to work to get moving, and the more fuel it guzzles. In fact, every 50kg increases your car’s consumption by 2%. So empty your car of any unnecessary junk lying around. If you’re not using your roof rack, take it off and leave it in the garage.

If you want to save some coin on your car, it’s time to make some little changes. By putting these tips to practice today, no doubt you’ll start to see a difference soon. 

Speaking of cars, Motor Matcher can help you pick the best car that is tailored to your driving needs. Whether it’s a new or used car you’re after, Motor Matcher has got the deal for you.
For more information, please visit http://www.motormatcher.com.au.