How to Save on Vehicle Repairs
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The truth about cars
Although a convenient and often quick way to navigate our busy lives, driving a car can often become the most expensive part of our budgets. The cost of vehicle repairs, especially the unexpected ones, leaving little else for other expenses. No matter how big or small the repair, or how new or old your model is, a repair/service can set you back hundreds or sometimes thousands of pounds. For example, if left unattended, a leaky radiator can cost anywhere between £250-£750, while a dodgy clutch that needs replacing costs on average about £450.
So, what can we do to save money on our vehicle repairs?
Tender Loving Car
Where would we be without our cars? Probably standing at the bus stop. From dropping the children off at school to commuting to work in the morning to taking family road trips in the summer, we rely on our vehicles so much that any damage can render them unroadworthy, causing major disruption to our daily routine.
By keeping your car well-maintained at home, you can avoid paying for expensive repairs at the garage, and that will save you money over the long run. In addition, there are small things you can do to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape, such as checking the oil levels to avoid damaging the engine, as bits of metal and dirt can get into the oil and cause it to wear out faster. Looking out for any leaks or pools of coolant under your vehicle can also save you a lot on radiator replacement!
If your car is due its annual MOT, try performing a pre-MOT check, so your car doesn’t fail on any minor repairs that you can fix at home. For example, replacing the tyres, bulbs, or topping up windscreen wiper fluid may seem like minor fixes but can save you a lot of money overall.
Last but not least, you can also help your car while driving. For example, avoid damaging your tyres, wheels, and suspension by riding slowly over potholes and unsealed roads.
Managing your budget
If the inevitable happens and your car requires repair or servicing, then it may be time to take it to a garage or mechanic. Although tempting to put off a minor repair, delaying or ignoring a repair can often increase the damage to your vehicle, resulting in higher expenses.
You can avoid upfront costs by paying for your vehicle’s service and repairs with alternative and more affordable methods. For example, financing your car repairs in instalments can often be a valuable way to manage your budget, thus saving you money. Companies like Bumper, who work with reputable dealerships, garages, and independent mechanics around the UK, allow you to spread the cost of repairs, services, MOTs, accessories, and parts over several monthly, interest-free payments.
