5 ways to save money on auto care
This is a guest post by Kari Cullen, the founder of Esavingsblog.com.
5 Ways to Save Money on Auto Care
1. Always check online before visiting a service shop.
First check for recalls or service bulletins. This one should not be over looked. I remember when I had an ECM computer issue with my Toyota Corolla and I looked online and found that there was a technical service bulletin on this issue. I called Toyota and explained to them my issue and that there was nothing I had done to cause it and I think that they should pay for it. After a day or two they got back to me and offered to pay for the part and I just had to pay for labor. I saved over $500 by doing this and all it took was a phone call and a little research! There are many car forums out there and many people willing to help you figure out your issue, so always do your research first to avoid overpaying.
2. Use Coupons!
Most dealerships have a website and on it there are usually coupons. I found that the service shops never tell you about them unless you bring it up so be sure to do your research first. If you’re going to a local neighborhood shop (or even a dealership), negotiate! It can’ hurt right?
3. Signup for rewards programs and incentives.
A lot of times when you buy your car they will offer you free oil changes for the first year or every fifth oil change free. Make sure to ask about these incentives because they add up quickly! I am a member of the Nissan rewards program and I have saved a lot on oil changes. Plus, I earn points for each service.
4. Take advantage of free services from your local auto part stores.
Places like AutoZone, PEPBOYS, Advanced Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts, CARQUEST and NAPA offer free services to help you with your car care.
Here is a quick list of some of those services you can expect to find.
- Loaner Tool Programs
- Battery, starter, and electrical system checks
- Battery replacements and charging
- Air conditioner system checks
- Windshield wiper replacement
- Light bulb replacement
- Oil and battery recycling
Call your local Auto Parts Store or visit their website to find out more.
5. Do it yourself!
This may be obvious but it should be stated as many people think it’s difficult to service your own car but simple things like changing air and cabin filters, oil & windshield wipers are super easy and you can find instructions and videos online to help you. By buying the parts yourself you will get an even bigger discount by utilizing sites like ShopAtHome.com to get cashback and coupon codes to use on your purchase. For example right now ShopAtHome is giving 6% cashback at Advance Auto Parts and lists a whole bunch of coupons you can use as well.
About Kari:
My name is Kari Cullen and I am the founder of Esavingsblog.com. I started Esavingsblog in 2009 as a way to share my passion for saving money with others. I am always on the lookout for new ways to save money. I am a huge fan of cashback and coupon sites like ShopAtHome and love to share all the different deals I find with my readers! You can find me on my blog at http://esavingsblog.com, and also on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest!
