Driving is often a necessity for work and leisure, but it can also become costly for motorists when you take into consideration fuel, wear and tear and maintenance. The financial burden of owning and operating a vehicle adds up quickly especially for those who rely on their car to commute. Fortunately, there are some smarter ways of driving to help keep costs down and making thoughtful choices can reduce these them substantially. In this blog some practical tips to help you make your driving habits more affordable.
Learn new driving habits
Your driving habits play a significant role in fuel consumption and vehicle wear and tear. By developing an economical driving style, you can save money in the long run because you won’t need to pay for costly repairs:
- Avoid aggressive driving: habits such as rapid acceleration, hard braking and speeding can significantly reduce your car’s fuel efficiency. Instead, drive smoothly and anticipate what the cars ahead of you are doing to reduce sudden stops and starts.
- Maintain a steady speed: Use cruise control on the motorway to maintain a consistent speed, which improves fuel efficiency.
- Reduce idling: allowing your car to idle wastes fuel. Whilst it may not drain all of your fuel when you idle once, letting your car idle all the time adds up. Turn off your engine if you expect to be at a stand-still for more than a minute.
Keep on top of maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures your car runs efficiently and prevents costly repairs down the line. It also increases your car’s value should you decide to sell it on at a later date. Regular servicing and MOTs help to ensure that your car is in good working order, but there are also some other things that you can do yourself:
- Check tyre pressure: properly inflated tyres improve gas mileage and prevent uneven wear. Check your tyre pressure monthly and always inflate your tyres if the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) tells you to.
- Change your oil and filters: follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes and air filter replacements. A mechanic may do this for you during your service when it’s time for them to be changed. They will notify you of this before your booking and then you can decide if you want to go ahead with the repairs or not.
- Inspect your engine: addressing engine issues early can prevent expensive repairs and improve fuel economy.
Plan Your Trips
Smart trip planning reduces unnecessary driving and fuel usage:
- Do all your errands in one go: instead of making multiple trips, combine all of your errands into a single outing.
- Avoid peak traffic hours if you can: sitting in traffic uses fuel without getting you anywhere. If you don’t need to commute, try to travel during off-peak times.
- Use navigation apps: apps like Google Maps can help you find the most fuel-efficient routes and avoid congestion.
Rethink how you use your vehicle
There are many reasons people need to use their cars but, where appropriate, there are other cost-effective options than using your own car all the time:
- Carshare: share rides with coworkers, friends, or neighbours to save on fuel and reduce vehicle wear.
- Use public transport: If you live close to bus stops or train stations, public transit can be a more affordable and eco-friendly option.
- Consider walking or cycling: for short trips, walking or biking can save money and improve your health.
Invest in fuel efficiency
When you’re looking for a car, it’s best to research its fuel efficiency so that you know you’re investing in a car that will keep costs low in the long-run:
- Choose a car that’s fuel efficient: If you’re in the market for a new car, consider hybrids, electric vehicles, or fuel-efficient models.
- Use the right fuel: stick to your manufacturer’s recommended fuel type to ensure optimal performance. You can also buy certain fuel additives to help keep the mechanics of the car free from dirt that could clog up the inner workings.
- Lighten the load: remove unnecessary items from your car. Extra weight decreases fuel efficiency.
Shop around for better deals
Reducing the costs associated with car ownership can also make driving more affordable:
- Compare insurance rates: shop around annually to ensure you’re getting the best rate for your coverage needs.
- Use fuel reward programs: many petrol stations offer discounts or cashback through loyalty programs.
- Look for maintenance discounts: check for deals on oil changes, tyre rotations and other services.
Be proactive with your driving
Lastly, being proactive about your driving habits and expenses can make a big difference:
- Track your costs: use an app or spreadsheet to monitor fuel, maintenance and other expenses. This can help you identify areas where you can cut back.
- Set a budget: allocate a specific amount for transport costs each month and keep to it.
- Stay informed: Keep up with fuel price trends and driving tips to adjust your habits accordingly.
Buy your next affordable car with Swansway
Affordable driving isn’t just about cutting costs; it’s about making smart, sustainable choices that benefit your wallet and the environment. By adapting to these habits, you’ll not only save money but also reduce your vehicle’s impact on the planet. Start small and implement one or two tips at a time. Over time, these changes will add up to significant savings and a more enjoyable driving experience. At Swansway, we have a range of new and used vehicles to choose from to help you keep your finances in check. If you’re unsure what you're looking for or would like to know more about any of the information you see on our website, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our team and we’d be happy to help you.