Car maintenance is a big deal. To save the most money – Pay attention to your check engine light and follow your car’s maintenance schedule. If you don’t, it could cost you big bucks and a major inconvenience later. After all, a car needs more than gas to keep running.

For example, routine oil changes are necessary to keep your engine running well. An oil change typically costs you $20 – $40. If you don’t do any oil changes, you can probably bank on having to do a major car repair.

Let me explain how skipping your oil changes could cost you a lot more money later.

I know someone who drove his car for a few years without having an oil change. The check engine light came on, but he ignored it. I guess he didn’t believe the light (who knows?). Eventually the car had enough of his neglect and stopped running. It literally died!

When the mechanic looked under the hood, there was a big hole in the engine. This was not an easy fix like patching a tire either. Unfortunately, the engine had reached the point of no return. The only way to fix the car was to replace the engine completely. To do this repair would now cost him over $2,000.

The only source of knowledge is experience. – Albert Einstein

I share this story only to stress the importance of car maintenance. But you already know this because you’re reading this post. Right? 🙂

Here are 3 Easy Ways to Save on Your Car Service:

  1. Service Your Car at A Reputable Repair Shop. You don’t have to take your car to the dealer, but make sure you find a reputable business. Do they offer any warranty? Do they have Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified mechanics? Have you read their online reviews or checked them out on the Better Business Bureaus (BBB)?
  2. Shop Around. I usually take my car to the dealer for car maintenance. I call several dealers in my area to compare prices before booking any appointment though. There’s nothing wrong with asking them if that’s the best price they have or if they’re willing to match a competitor’s price either. Depending on what I need, sometimes I may comparison shop with other reputable auto repair shops and have it done there instead.
  3. Use Coupons and Other Money Savings Deals. Seek and you may find some great service specials and printable service coupons online. Be sure to check your mailbox for any service coupon mailers. If you’re a member of a wholesale club like Costco you may receive additional discounts on car service at your local car dealership also. 

 

Photo: Jim Bauer