“A Detailed Guide of Money Saving Advice & Budgeting Tips On How To Be Frugal & Spend Less”
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CAR REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE -
Routine Maintenance (continued)
b. Tires are rated for both tread wear and handling characteristics in both fair weather and foul weather environments. Make sure you compare these ratings when purchasing tires, to find the best value given your needs. The folks at the tire store will be happy to discuss the tire wear and handling characteristics with you to help you make a decision. And while there is generally an extra charge, make sure any new tires you purchase are spin balanced. Ask if the charge for spin balancing provides for lifetime balance, or just the initial balancing.
c. Most tires are rated and guaranteed for a certain number of miles (such as 50,000 miles, etc.). If your old tires have worn down prior to being driven the stated number of miles, you may be entitled to a reduction in price for your new tires, assuming you are buying the same brand of tire. Check with the tire store. Also, if your tire is being replaced because of a defect, you should receive a mileage allowance for the purchase of your new tire or tires, resulting in a reduced price.
d. When purchasing tires, make sure you get at least a few quotes from tire stores, and that these quotes include all costs to you. And do not be afraid to ask for a better price. Most tire stores will negotiate, and most stores also have tires on sale. Make sure you look on the Internet for some great prices, and don’t forget to get prices at discount stores like Costco and Walmart. Finally, resist the urge to buy road hazard insurance. While anything is possible, the types of hazards this covers are unlikely to happen.
4. While checking fluid levels and tires are the most critical maintenance tasks that can be performed easily by the vehicle owner, other routine maintenance can also be performed to save money.
a. Wiper blades often stop working well and need to be replaced. You can buy blades to fit your vehicle at any auto parts store, and easily install them yourself or have them installed for free. If you know the make, model and year of your vehicle and know the length of each blade, a sales associate will help you find the right blade and will probably also install them free of charge.
b. Today, many vehicle batteries are sealed and the water level in the battery cannot be checked. However, if the battery does have removable covers, check the water level every six months or so, and add water to bring the level up to the fill mark, if necessary. If you do need a new battery, drive your vehicle to the auto parts store and they will determine what type of battery you need to buy and include installation for free. If you cannot drive the vehicle to the store, take the old battery out of the vehicle and take it to the auto parts store for a replacement. If you are buying the same brand of battery, make sure to ask if the old battery has any warranty life left on it. Batteries are usually guaranteed for a certain number of years, and if they fail prematurely you should get a reduction in the purchase price of your new battery. And do not fall for some mechanics request that you do an electrical system check at your cost, to see if the something else is wrong and not the battery. It is almost always the battery and not something else. Just get the battery replaced.
c. If your air filter needs to be changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, consider changing it yourself. This is usually easy to do and you can purchase the right air filter at any auto parts store. They may even show you how to install it, or actually install it for you. In any case, your vehicle’s manual should show you how it is done.
d. Every once in a while a headlight , brake light or other bulb will stop working in your vehicle. In many instances, these bulbs can be accessed easily for removal and replacement. Take the bulb to the auto parts store for a replacement. Or better yet, take your vehicle with the burnt out bulb to the store, and the personnel at the auto parts store just might install the new bulb for you.
e. While installing new brake pads or relining brakes is not something that can be done by the average vehicle owner, knowing when these repairs need to be made can eliminate more costly repairs and potentially dangerous braking situations. If you hear a scraping or high pitched tinny noise coming from one or more of your wheels, chances are it’s the brake sensors indicating the pads or linings are worn down and need to be changed. Have this checked by a mechanic to see if repairs are required. But remember, installing brake pads and relining brakes is a highly competitive business and you should shop around for the best deal. Also, if you have disk brakes, make sure the brake job includes cutting down or turning the rotors to ensure they have a smooth surface.
f. Today’s vehicles usually have very good paint jobs which generally include clear coat finishes. They do not need a lot of maintenance. But if you want your vehicle to look good, wash it regularly and apply a clear coat polish once a year. Washing and waxing your vehicle really is quite easy and can save you a lot of money if you do it yourself.
While much money can be saved on routine maintenance with just a little bit of effort and knowledge, scheduled maintenance generally requires the capabilities of professional mechanics, except for the most knowledgeable vehicle owners. However, there are ways to save money.
1. First of all, find a reputable vehicle repair shop or independent mechanic that is reasonably priced. This usually will not be a new car dealer service center. Car repair pricing varies widely, and new car dealers will usually be at the very top end of the amount charged. Most independent mechanics can do any repairs or scheduled maintenance required, and are far less expensive. Ask your friends for references and
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