We all know that for many drivers, buying a car can be expensive so it’s important that owning and running a car also doesn’t cost you more than it needs to. There are a number of ways in which drivers could consider cutting their car costs and helping to save money along the way. With the cost of living increasing and fuel prices fluctuating, it can be a good idea to keep your car in good condition, find the cheapest fuel possible and spread the cost of buying a car by using finance. The blog below looks at the top 8 ways in which you can help to save money as a driver.
1. Spread the cost with finance.
Both new and used cars can cost thousands of pounds to buy outright and whilst buying with cash is the most cost-effective way to get a car, for many it’s not an option. If you’re saving account won’t stretch to buying a car outright, you could consider using car finance to help spread the cost. Car finance agreements such as PCP can even allow you to get a brand-new car with low monthly payments for your budget.
2. Increase your credit score.
If you are considering a car on finance, it will be subject to approval and increasing your credit score can be one of the easiest ways to improve your chances of getting a car finance approval. Lenders want to know the likelihood of your paying your loan back on time and based on your past behaviour, they can assess the risk. A low credit score usually indicates a history of mishandling credit. Instead, you should try to meet all current payments on time and in full, build a credit history if you don’t have one and also try to clear as much existing debt as you have to help improve your score.
3. Find cheap car insurance.
Each car that is driven on UK roads needs a valid car insurance policy in place by law. Car insurance premiums can be different from driver to driver but there are a few factors which you can consider helping get the cheapest insurance rates. Unfortunately, things like how long you have been driving can affect your premiums and usually first time or newly qualified drivers can face the highest premiums. However, there are other factors that you can control such as the type of you drive, your level voluntary excess and your no claims discount.
4. Check tyre pressure.
Your tyre pressure is really important and having underinflated or over inflated tyres can be dangerous and also cost you money. You should get into the habit of checking your tyre pressure regularly and adjust the pressure to the required amount. If you’re unsure you can check your drivers manual or usually, is it displayed on the inside of your driver’s side door.
5. Check fuel prices.
It’s no secret that fuel prices can fluctuate at any time and this is why is can important to find the cheapest fuel possible. There are many apps and online sites that can help you locate the cheapest fuel prices in your area to help save you money when filling up.
6. Get a car that fits your needs.
Many drivers don’t realise that buying a car that isn’t fit for purpose can be costing you money. If you need more space, it can be a good idea to shop for the best family cars to buy or if you constantly travel many miles, cars with good MPG can help to reduce your fuel consumption.
7. Drive smoothly.
The way you drive has a massive impact on how much fuel you use and also the general condition of your car. By anticipating the road ahead, driving more smoothly and also avoid harsh braking, you can help to use less fuel and also increase the longevity of your vehicle. It can also be a good idea to keep up with regularly servicing and MOTs to help maintain your vehicle and reduce the likelihood of something going wrong.
8. Declutter your vehicle.
Many of us can be guiltily of using a place to store things but having additional weight within the vehicle can increase the amount of fuel you are using as the car has to work harder. It can a good idea to consider how much you’re storing within your vehicle and get of rid anything that is non-essential.
