Driving is one of the greatest skills that anyone can ever learn. Unfortunately, there’s no denying that it’s also one of the most expensive. For the average person, finding ways to slam the brakes on those rising costs is essential. Thankfully, no matter how many years you’ve been behind the wheel, there are ways to reduce those costs.
Lower driving expenses will help you enjoy a better relationship with your time behind the wheel. Of course, there are habitual changes like carpools. However, the most important thing is to consider every step of those driving activities. As long as you give it a thorough treatment, it should be a pretty smooth transition towards better driving.
Here’s all you need to know.
Pass First Time
The first step to becoming king of the road is to gain your driving license. In truth, this can be one of the most exciting times in your life, particularly when you get told that you’ve passed. However, it can be a costly process too, especially if you don’t take it seriously.
As a driver, you have a number of options at your disposal. Many people find that crash courses are a great solution for passing fast, and at the first attempt. However, the most important factor is that you prepare properly to give yourself the best chance of getting it right at the first attempt. Sadly, once you start getting to test four or five, you’ll find that your savings for that first vehicle have taken a big hit.
The practical elements aren’t the only key aspect to consider, though. Theory tests can become equally substantial if you let them. Whether it’s online practice or reading textbooks, giving it the attention it deserves is key.
Find The Right Car
Once you’ve passed your test, the world is your oyster. However, you’ll need a vehicle before embracing those opportunities, which is why getting this decision right is vital. Apart from anything else, you’ll remember your first car more than any other. Therefore, you must make sure that those memories are of a positive nature.
Whether you’re a first-time driver or an experienced one, finding the right model for your needs is essential. There is no right or wrong answer, as different people have varying needs and preferences. One thing that all drivers should do, however, is test drive any prospective purchase. Only your body will know if it feels right for you. Then again, if you’re lucky enough to be offered a freebie from your parents, you should grab it with both hands.
There are plenty of other questions to ask, such as whether to buy new or used. Likewise, you might want to wait until the new registration plates are close to release so that you can secure a better deal. Combine this with the right decision regarding repayment plan, and the costs will drop significantly.
Give Your Car Some TLC
Vehicles are advanced bits of machinery, but they will inevitably encounter a few problems over the years. Those issues will become far more regular if you don’t treat the car properly, though. As such, looking after the motor should be a 24/7 challenge.
Simple jobs like maintaining tire pressure and fluid levels will go a long way to helping. Perhaps most importantly, you need to read your manual and understand the signs that trouble is brewing. Acting quickly will keep your vehicle safer, and reduce the long-term costs. Borrowing some cash from Personal Money Store will enable you to get your ride back into top health. By maintaining that condition, you should find that the car lasts longer and costs less to run.
There are a number of upgrades that can reduce the weight of your car to aid fuel consumption. Alternatively, you could simply invest in a Sat Nav to ensure that you always take the most appropriate route. You’d be amazed at how much money you save over the year. If it helps save time too, you’d be a fool not to capitalize.
Get The Best Deals
Finding the most cost-effective route to owning the car will offer a fantastic foundation, but it’s only the start of this process. If you truly want the best value for money, you need to take a panoramic view regarding all potential expenses.
After the car purchase, insurance costs are the next biggest expense. Thankfully, comparing the various deals with The Zebra will enable you to cut a huge chunk off of those bills. For new drivers, named drivers can be another great way to lower the costs – although you aren’t allowed to do it unless it is a legitimate reason. Meanwhile, searching for the best deals on new parts and other items should increase those savings even further.
Another time where you should go the extra mile for a great deal is when you sell your current car. Keep it clean, complete those other small maintenance tasks, and make it look more attractive. If it helps you get a better sale price, it will open your options greatly.
Drive Responsibly
Taking a responsible approach to consumer decisions will certainly put you on the road to success. Having said that, the fact is that your actions on the road can be equally influential to the overall costs of driving. Ultimately, it has to be a 24/7 commitment. Otherwise, you could open yourself up for a nasty fall.
Prevention is the best form of protection, and knowing the most common road accidents will help you avoid them. Anti-sleep devices and Bluetooth speaker systems can help you avoid dangerous distractions. Not only could this save you money; it could additionally save your life.
Aside from avoiding damage, you need to respect the law. Driving on the phone or over the speed limit can be very harmful to your finances. It could end up costing you your privilege of being allowed to drive too. Most importantly, if you aren’t prepared to take greater care on the road, you shouldn’t even be on it.
