Follow Us: Google+
 
Bankrate.com

2010 Frugal Living Guide
Car repair
smart spending
6 tips to save money as a frugal car owner

Maintain your car and save
Next
5 of 8
Back
Maintain your car and save

If you're following the frugal path and are about to buy a used car, take it to a trustworthy mechanic before you close the deal. If you don't have a good mechanic, find one. Seek out word-of-mouth recommendations from friends with well-maintained cars.

Treat your relationship with your mechanic like you would with your doctor. This is the person who will help prevent expensive disasters if you pay him or her regular visits and follow his or her advice.

"If you maintain your car, you're avoiding expensive repairs down the road," says Leona Dalavai Scott, editor of AutoInc., a publication of the Automotive Service Association in Bedford, Texas.

It's far cheaper to change a few hoses than to replace a blown engine, Scott says. So, take the time to get your car serviced regularly and save money in the long run. And if you bought from a dealer, take full advantage of the warranty and follow the recommended maintenance schedule.


 

 

advertisement

Show Bankrate's community sharing policy
            Connect with us
Compare Rates
advertisement
Most Read
  1. Beach towns with bargain homes
  2. 6 tips for successful yard sale
  3. Nick Nolte's house for sale
  4. 5 costliest tickets for car insurance
  5. 7 sedans for the young at heart
  6. 5 car models that lose value
  7. Ali Landry's house for sale
  8. Headlight requirements by state
  9. 9 gas-only, fuel-efficient cars
  10. 8 eerie ghost towns
advertisement
Partner Center
advertisement

Advertising Disclosure: Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. Bankrate may be compensated in exchange for featured placement of certain sponsored products and services, or your clicking on links posted on this website.