• home
• articles & guides
• cost of living: how to run your car more cheaply

Everyone is feeling the pinch at the moment. From the cost of living, to interest rates, to inflation, your finances are probably top of the pile when it comes to stress. Running a car is often a necessary expense, so looking at ways to reduce running costs can be a vital part of the planning when it comes to your monthly finances. In this article, we look at some money-saving tips, such as how to be more economical with your fuel and how to reduce the general costs of running a vehicle.

How can I reduce my car running costs?

1. Choose a car that is fuel efficient: When it comes to reducing your running costs, the type of vehicle you choose can be one of the most important factors. If you are in the market for a new car, then look at models with good fuel efficiency ratings. This will help you save money in the long run as you won't have to fill up as often, and you might even qualify for lower insurance premiums.
2. Monitor your fuel usage: Keeping an eye on how much fuel you are using can help you save money in the long run. Make sure to check your petrol tank regularly so that you can keep track of how much is being used each time you fill up. Additionally, try to be economical with your driving habits, such as avoiding sudden stops and accelerating gradually.
3. Choose the right type of fuel: Depending on your vehicle, you may have several different types of fuel at your disposal. Research which type of fuel is best for your car in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. For example, diesel engines can be more efficient than petrol ones, so if you have the option, you may want to switch to diesel.
4. Check your tyres: Ensuring that your tyres are inflated at the correct pressure can help reduce fuel consumption and is essential for road safety. If you notice that your tyres have become worn down or punctured, it might be worth replacing them as driving on low-pressure tyres can increase fuel consumption significantly.
5. Regular car maintenance: Keeping your vehicle in good condition can help reduce running costs. Regular servicing and timely repairs can save you a lot of money in the long run, so make sure to check that all fluids are topped up and components like brakes and suspension have been checked over regularly. It's also important to get your engine tuned regularly as this can help improve fuel efficiency.

By following these tips, you can help keep your running costs down and ensure that your car is running as efficiently as possible. Not only will this save you money in the short term, but it could also make a big difference to your long-term finances too.

How can I save money on car services?

It's important to shop around. When it comes to car servicing, it pays to shop around and compare prices. Don’t just go for the first offer you receive - take the time to research different companies, read reviews from customers, and get quotes from several providers before making your decision. This could save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

You could also consider buying second-hand parts. When it comes to repairs, you can often save money by purchasing second-hand parts. Check out local scrapyards or online marketplaces for more affordable components, and make sure they are in good condition before using them in your car. Try to take advantage of discounts and special offers as well. Many garages offer discounted rates, so make sure to ask about any promotional deals they may have available.

Finally, you could consider DIY repairs. If you feel comfortable with the task, then you could try some simple repairs yourself. Make sure to research your car’s manual first and be aware of the potential risks associated with DIY work. This can save you a great deal of money in the long run, but make sure you’re not taking on a task that is beyond your capabilities.

Is it more fuel efficient to leave the car running?

No, it is not more fuel efficient to leave your car running. Leaving your engine idling wastes fuel and money - in fact, research has shown that leaving the engine running for just 10 seconds can use up as much fuel as restarting your vehicle three times. It also produces more emissions, which contributes to air pollution. Unless you’re stuck in traffic or it’s freezing cold outside, turning off your engine is always the best option.

So if you want to save money and help reduce air pollution, make sure to turn off your car when you don’t need it running. It could make a big difference in the long run!

How can I save on petrol while driving?

Driving more efficiently can help you save money on petrol. Here are a few tips to help:

1. Drive at a steady, constant speed as this will make your car more efficient and consume less fuel.
2. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking - these use up more fuel and can also wear down your brakes faster.
3. Reduce drag - this means closing your windows and sunroof when driving at higher speeds. This will help reduce wind resistance and make your car more efficient.
4. Keep your tyres inflated to the correct pressure as it can help improve fuel efficiency.
5. Reduce the weight of your vehicle by removing anything that isn’t essential for the journey, such as roof racks and luggage boxes.

By following these tips, you can help make your car more efficient and save money on fuel costs. Not only that, but you’ll also be helping reduce emissions and contributing to a greener environment.

What speed saves the most petrol?

The speed that saves the most petrol depends on your vehicle, but generally speaking, driving at a steady, constant speed is more fuel efficient than accelerating and braking. The best way to save fuel is to keep your speed low in areas with a lot of traffic or changing road conditions, such as cities or school zones. This will also help you avoid running into legal trouble as speeding tickets can be expensive.

Overall, the most fuel efficient speed is one that is suitable for the conditions and helps you avoid sudden changes in acceleration or braking. This way, you will get the most out of your petrol and save money in the long run.

What are the benefits of electric cars?

Electric cars offer a number of advantages over traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. Firstly, they have no emissions and so produce zero pollution, making them an environmentally friendly option. They also tend to be much quieter when driving, which can make for a more pleasant experience.

In addition, electric cars can be cheaper to run due to their lack of emissions and more efficient use of energy. They tend to cost less in maintenance as they have fewer parts than petrol or diesel engines. Finally, electric cars often provide a smoother ride with no vibration or noise from the engine.

Overall, electric cars are an excellent option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money in the long run. With more and more models being released, now is an ideal time to consider making the switch!

So, if you want to save money on running your car, there are plenty of steps you can take. From choosing the right type of fuel and maintaining your vehicle regularly, to driving more efficiently and shopping around for car services - all these tips can help make a difference in the long run. With some research and careful planning, you could be well on your way to saving money while keeping your car running smoothly.