How to keep your car running costs down
Your car doesn't have to cost a fortune to run here are a few ways in which you can reduce the cost of owning and running your car:
1) Insurance: It may seem obvious but get a number of quotes before you take out insurance. Try using comparison websites but remember that no single website offers quotes from every insurance company. You can increase your voluntary excess to bring down the cost of your insurance and think about whether you need fully comprehensive insurance if your car's old, it may not be worth it.
2) Driving style: The biggest influence on fuel consumption is driving style. Basically, the smoother the driving style, the more economical it will be. Youll also find that fuel consumption increases rapidly when the cruising speed goes up.
3) Leave the car at home: If your journey is less than ten miles, the engine wont reach its normal working temperature. This means higher fuel consumption and more wear and tear to the engine. Instead try to find a car share, use public transport, walk or cycle.
4) Fuel: This is the biggest day-to-day expense. Shop around for the cheapest fuel and consider using supermarket petrol stations as well if it's a supermarket you shop at regularly look out for vouchers giving you a few pence off per litre fill up a whole tank and you could save quite a bit.
Keeping your car safe is another way to keep the overall cost down, as theft or damage from vandalism can also be very costly, as well as a great inconvenience. Here are a few simple ways to deter thieves.
1) It sounds obvious but don't leave your car unlocked if you're just at the petrol station - your insurers may not pay up if your car is stolen.
2) Don't leave the ignition key in. It doesn't matter if your car is in the garage or you're just nipping indoors for a moment, remember to remove those keys!
3) Don't leave valuables visible, or in the glove box for that matter. Lock them in the boot in a suitable safe box or take them with you. Vehicle documents should never be left in the car as a thief can use them to sell the car.
4) Park smart. Choose a car park with an attendant and go for a space in a busy part. If you're parking after dark, opt for the most well lit area you can find.
5) Have an electronic immobilizer fitted. These stop the engine from being started. Mechanical devices, such as steering wheel and gear lever locks, are simple, high visibility deterrents.
6) Fit an alarm. These add another layer of protection - a good deterrent, especially for on street parking.
7) Fit a tracker. If your car is your pride and joy, a tracker might put your mind at ease. They're expensive but at least your car can be traced if it is stolen.
About the Author: Written by John Somer of http://www.autouseful.co.uk, the new UK online motoring store for car accessories, motoring gifts and car care products like Zymol wax.
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