When you factor in registration costs, servicing fees and the unpredictable rise and fall of petrol prices, owning a car is a financial burden. Why not lighten the load of your car costs with these five money-saving tips?
Leg it
Would you hop into your car for the five-minute drive to the supermarket or to meet a friend for coffee? Instead of making use of your convenient car, choose to walk? Not only will you save on petrol, but you’ll also get some exercise too. Invest in a lightweight shopping trolley to bring your shopping home.
Take public transport
Taking public transport will save you petrol – plus, it’s great for the environment. Passenger vehicles have a negative impact on water quality, due to run-off from roads, and on air quality, via exhaust fumes. Australians with a Seniors Card are eligible for concessions, so find out more from your public transport provider.
Car pooling
When going out for the day, heading to the shops or taking care of any errands, try to car pool with friends and family. You’ll save on petrol, the wear on your car and the hassle of paid parking. You can sort out a system whereby you take turns driving. If you and your partner are going out at the same time, ask to be dropped off and then take public transport home.
Bucket wash
Going through the carwash is fun, but there’s nothing it can achieve that you can’t do with a bucket, water, soap and shammy. Get your car squeaky-clean for free and give yourself a little bit of exercise.
Pay-as-you-drive insurance
Pay-as-you-drive insurance is a great way to keep car costs down, especially if you only use your car occasionally. You pay insurance based only on how many kilometres you drive each year. If you think you’ll go over your allocated range, you can call your insurer and they’ll bump up your level.