Like going to the doctor for a checkup or running a virus scan on your computer, preventative maintenance for your car is an important part of its upkeep. Unfortunately, car maintenance is much more expensive than other forms of care; however, there are ways to save a bit of money on your maintenance bill.
* Pay attention to promotions. When you purchase a new or used car from a dealership, the vehicle will often come with a maintenance plan that is either free or discounted. Though these plans almost never cover everything, they can save you money and provide you with the peace of mind that your car is being taken care of by expert mechanics.
* Be a loyal client. Oftentimes local mechanics will build up a rapport with their clients and discount their services. If you can find a local mechanic that you trust, why not send your business that way instead of going to the nationwide chain shops? The supposition that smaller shops are more expensive is a myth and, after shopping around, you may find that you prefer the atmosphere of small business.
* Cut coupons. If you can't find a local mechanic in your area the next best thing is to look in the paper for coupons. Maintenance encompasses a variety of services, the most common being the oil change. Chain businesses will frequently place coupons in the papers or even online - cutting your bill for an oil change down as low as 20 dollars! Additionally, many of these stores will offer promotional discounts based upon how long you have been a customer or how many services you purchase.
* Do it yourself. Though performing your own maintenance on your car may void the car's warranty, if the warranty has already run out and you are experienced in car repairs then go for it! You can save up to 70 percent or more by doing simple things by yourself, like changing the oil, replacing filters, or putting in new brake pads. Don't go this route unless you are certain you know what you are doing, though, as improper maintenance can cause major (and expensive) problems down the road.
* Don't put it off. While waiting to get an oil change or replace your air filter may seem like it is saving you money now, it can in fact cost you a great deal in the future. Preventative maintenance is just that - services that prevent larger issues from cropping up. To avoid major car trouble and a hefty bill tomorrow, go ahead and bite the bullet by paying for maintenance today.
Saving money on maintenance can be achieved in a variety of ways, but paying for great service should never be completely avoided. Just like your body or your computer, your car is vulnerable to breaks and bugs that can cause some serious harm. By sticking to a maintenance plan, following the previous tips, and ensuring that your car is running to its optimum potential, you can save money and increase the life of your vehicle.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6159748
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