Six Simple Ways to Find Local Discounts and Reduce Car Costs

At least twice a year, I always try to sit down to see how much money I can save with my car insurance back home in the States. It’s an expense I have to keep up with, but I’m always trying to score a deal whenever I can. I mean, when you look at all of the costs associated with owning a vehicle, they really start to add up. Gas prices are much higher than they were a few years ago, and it’s easy to forget about your monthly car insurance rates. Add in car payments, the cost of regular maintenance, and the occasional repair, and owning a vehicle can become a major expense.

That’s why it’s important to reduce car costs wherever possible. Some costs can be reduced with a simple phone call, like asking your insurance agent about car insurance discounts you may qualify for like I suggested earlier, while other cost cutting opportunities are more local. Below are six ways you can save money on car expenses right in your home town.

1. Dealership coupons and specials: If you purchased your vehicle at a dealership, ask about coupons or discounts on services like regular maintenance and oil changes. Repairs are typically more expensive at dealerships than at a local mechanic, but many basic services are offered for free or at a discount for the first year that you own your vehicle.
2. Local mechanic deals: Keep an eye out for local discounts on minor repairs and services. Many mechanics offer low-cost oil changes, along with a free diagnosis, in hopes that you will have any necessary repairs done at that garage.
3. Tire and car battery sales: Car batteries and tires are often discounted, so keep an eye out for sales. If you’re in the market for a new tire, consider buying two or four at a time. Most auto parts stores sell sets of tires at a significant discount, so buying four tires when you need only one can actually save you money.
4. Online coupons: Search for online discounts to local auto parts stores and garages. There are several online coupon sites that periodically offer deals on car repairs, stereo installations, automotive enhancements or other car services you may need. Before any major auto expense, search online coupon sites for local discounts.
5. Car wash discounts: Summer is the best time to find deals on car washes, but you can still look for them now. Take note of the car washes in your area that offer regular discounts, and keep an eye out for car wash fundraisers. The kids usually do a pretty good job of hand-washing vehicles, and the suggested donation is often relatively small.
6. Strategic gas fill-ups: Gas prices vary greatly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and month of the year. While you can’t predict exactly when gas prices will be at their lowest, they tend to follow a few trends. Since gas prices are usually the highest on the weekends and in the afternoon, the best time to fill up is usually Wednesday morning to cut down on car costs.

What are some other ways that you know of to save on car costs? I’d love to hear about them!

[Note: Sponsored content was created and provided by Nationwide Insurance.]