Reduce the costs of running a car

Is running a car becoming prohibitively expensive? well, good news is here. Buckle up because we've got some tips that'll have you grinning like a Cheshire cat whilst helping you to save a few quid on the running of your beloved four-wheeled companion.

Let’s dive headfirst into the art of penny-pinching without sacrificing the joy of the open road.

Making some simple changes could save you huindreds of pounds over the course of a year.

Fuel costs

First things first, let's talk about the juice that keeps our engines purring - fuel! Now, I know we all love the sweet symphony of a roaring engine, but let's not forget the pain at the pump/plug. To stretch your pounds further, consider shopping around for the best fuel on your petrol, diesel, or electricity. Websites and apps like PetrolPrices.com for ICE drivers, and Octopus Electroverse for EV users are like treasure maps leading you to your fuel of choice at the lowest cost. It's like finding buried treasure every time you use it!

Slow it down

Now, let's talk about driving habits. We all love to unleash our inner Lewis Hamilton at times on the motorway, but that need for speed is burning a hole in our wallets. Ease off the accelerator, my friends! Smooth driving not only keeps your passengers from clutching the oh-crap handle but also improves fuel efficiency. It's like a win-win for your wallet and your nerves.

Regular servicing

Maintenance, the unsung hero of budget-friendly car ownership. Neglecting your car's TLC is a surefire way to drain your bank account faster than a Bugatti Veyron on the Autobahn. Regular servicing, checking the oil, and keeping those tires properly inflated are the unsung heroes of frugal motoring. Check out BookMyGarage for a great price local to you (you can even read customer reviews!); or, if your car is out of warranty and you know your way around a set of spanners, maybe have a go yourself. (just make sure you keep and record and hold on to parts invoices as evidence!)

Trust me; your car will love you back with better performance and fewer unexpected bills.

Car insurance

Now, let's dive into the world of insurance. Shopping around for the best deal on your car insurance is like hunting for the perfect pair of driving gloves. Don't settle for the first one you find! Explore comparison websites and haggle with your current provider. A bit of friendly negotiation can save you a heap of cash. And remember, loyalty is great, but so is having money left over for that dream road trip. Try running a quote through using QuoteZone to compare deals from over 100 different car insurance providers; it’s completely free so you have nothing to lose.

Parking charges

Parking fees, a necessary evil of city life. But fear not, my fellow road warriors! With a bit of cunning, you can outsmart the parking game. Look for cheaper alternatives like park-and-ride facilities or explore residential streets just a short stroll away from your destination. It's like finding a secret hideout for your car that won't cost you an arm and a wheel. YourParkingSpace.co.uk is a great place to find a space that suits your budget!

Car finance

Lastly, let's talk about car finance. No one wants to be caught in the finance trap, paying more for their car than they would for a small island in the Caribbean. Consider buying used instead of new and look for finance deals with lower interest rates; remember that you don’t have to take finance from the car dealership - you can shop around for finance options in the same way that you might shop around for your car insurance. Do a bit of donkey work and enjoy the thrill of a new ride without feeling like you've just signed your life away.

Dodge the car wash

Opting for a car wash service or hiring someone to do the job might seem convenient, but it comes at a price – literally. Keep that tenner in your pocket and the savings will soon add up. Consider the annual cost of a fortnightly car wash, which becomes a hefty total sum over a year.

But fear not! Instead of digging into your pockets, why not roll up your sleeves, grab a sponge, and take matters into your own hands? Check out our list of recommended Car Wash products on Amazon.

In summary

So there you have it, my friends – Starling's Savings for stretching your pounds and still enjoying the joy of motoring. Saving money on your car doesn't mean sacrificing the thrill; it's just about driving smarter and making your wallet and your wheels live happily ever after.