You do not need to spend so much money on your vehicle’s maintenance and repairs, especially if it is a used car. Unfortunately, pre-owned cars are sometimes more expensive to repair. In most cases, the manufacturer’s warranty for these vehicles has expired, leaving car owners to bear the burden of repair costs alone.

You’ll be glad to know there are ways to keep repair and maintenance costs down, even with a used car. Below are some of the ways to make sure your used car doesn’t turn into a money pit.

Consider Getting a Reliable Extended Car Warranty

A second-hand car may or may not have a running factory warranty. Either way, securing a used car warranty for it can make your life easier. Having an extended car warranty can help you with the car repair costs, depending on what you want to pay for.

A comprehensive used car warranty can take care of extensive repairs with just one call. Your warranty provider would pay the mechanic after approving the repairs. This will take care of your car repair costs even if you do not have the budget for it. Paying a regular fee to your provider is all you need to do to avail of the comprehensive coverage.

A good extended warranty will give you access to 24-hour roadside help. Your provider can send a tow truck to your location and bring you and your car to the nearest approved repair shop. Repairs can last for days. Your provider can cover your food, car rental, and lodging until you can use your car again.

Before you sign up for an extended car warrant, though, check if the car still has a factory warranty. Many used car owners fail to do this, so the factory and the extended warranties overlap. An existing factory warranty must run its course first. Then, you can decide when you should get an extended car warranty.

Research Extended Warranty Providers

Choosing an extended warranty provider involves checking with authorities and sources like the Better Business Bureau. The extended warranty provider you choose should provide your coverage needs and fit your budget. You should match your lifestyle and car situation with your extended warranty. This will secure your money for your auto repair needs.
Asking your friends and family can help point you in the right direction. The feedback and recommendations they give can strengthen your decision in making a choice.

Bring the Car to Your Trusted Mechanic

This applies if you’re looking for a used car. A credible used car dealership will let you take your car to the mechanic. This will help you determine if the car is in good shape inside and out. The mechanic will check the mechanical and safety components of the vehicle. The results can help you get a more favorable deal. Dealerships often take care of the necessary repairs. The private car sellers will then lower the total cost.

Go For a Test Drive

This is a crucial step to take before you sign your name on the dotted line and drive a used car home. It may be a second-hand car, but see the way it functions by going for a test drive. This can determine if it rides as smoothly as you like or if it has performance issues. Move on to another car the moment you find out something is wrong during the test drive.

Be a Safe Driver

Poor or aggressive driving habits can cause different car components to fail earlier than expected. This may lead to expensive repairs, especially with a used car. Careful driving will prevent this from happening. This will give you a used car with lasting performance.

Stay away from potholes and avoid driving over curbs. These often exhaust your tires too much. Be mindful of your fuel level. Driving will very little fuel will push the sediments into the engine and fuel line. This will lead to expensive repairs and replacements.

Combining short trips into one long trip is also better for your engine. Many short trips contribute to the easy wear and tear of your car. Furthermore, a steady and slow acceleration will prevent your engine’s early deterioration. Doing the same before stopping the car can prevent the early wear and tear of your brake pads.

Perform Preventive Maintenance

This type of regular maintenance will cost money. Even so, it will keep your used car working nearly like brand-new. Preventive maintenance can help you avoid mechanical issues during your trips. You also want to avoid having to call for roadside assistance in the middle of your trip.

For instance, a regular oil change can be performed between 6,000 miles and 10,000 miles. The car owner’s manual indicates how often you should change your engine oil. Following this reminder can prevent clogging in your engine. It will keep the engine from slowing down or even dying.

Bringing the car in for routine tune-ups will also prevent your car from being a money pit. These routine checks include:

Topping off low levels of brake fluid, antifreeze, power steering, and transmission
Replacing clogged or dirty air filters
Checking or replacing hoses and belts
Inspecting the battery’s performance
Examining the axles and undercarriage for possible issues

Gas up at Credible Gas Stations

Sometimes, it is tempting to get gas at an inexpensive, off-brand station. Off-brand gasoline has fewer additives unrecognized by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). These do not improve engine performance at all. The additives in gasoline from reputable stations can clean and lengthen the life of your engine. The EPA also recognizes these additives.

Takeaway: Not All Used Cars are Money Pits

A used car could be one of the most worthwhile investments you can make if you take good care of it. Getting an extended car warranty, driving carefully, and regular tune-ups are important ways to lower your car maintenance costs.

Sticking to a routine of preventive maintenance can also help you save money on car repairs. It does not matter if your car is a second-hand car. What matters is how you care for it without draining your budget.