How to Save $500 on Your Car Maintenance This Winter
Winter can be especially hard on your car. This is because the cold temperatures can cause fluids, such as oil and coolant, to thicken. When that happens, it can lead to some serious problems, including frozen moisture in the fuel lines. Not to mention, tire pressure drops in cool weather too. So, what can you do to combat these issues while staying on budget? Here are a few ways to save $500+ on car maintenance this winter.
1. DIY Maintenance When You Can
The best thing you can do is learn to perform basic car maintenance tasks yourself. Replacing air filters, refilling wiper fluid, replacing windshield wipers, and topping off antifreeze and oil are all great things to know how to do. It can cut down on labor costs in a big way. For example, if you replace your car’s air filter, you might spend about $15 instead of a $50+ service (depending on your car’s make and model). It’s a good idea to also inspect your tires on a regular basis. This will help you ensure they are properly inflated, improving traction and handling.
2. Invest in Winter Tires
Speaking of tires, winter tires are a must for safety, but buying them early can save you money. This may not be needed everywhere, but if you live somewhere it snows often, you need to look into cold-weather tires for your car. Prices often spike as temperatures drop, so look for discounts before the weather shifts. Check online retailers, local tire shops, or even secondhand options for deals. Properly installed winter tires reduce wear on your all-season tires, extending their lifespan and saving you money in the long run. Investing early can prevent costly accidents and emergency replacements. A typical set of snow tires costs less than $800. While the upfront cost is tough, it will save you from headaches down the road.
3. Shop Around for Service Deals
In the winter, many shops and dealerships offer special deals for customers. Keep an eye out for promotions on services like oil changes and brake jobs. You might also have luck landing coupons from organizations like AAA if you are a member. Groupon is also a good place to look for deals in your area. As always, make sure you are comparing prices between different shops to ensure you’re getting the best price. A little research can go a long way in reducing your winter car care expenses.
4. Protect Your Battery from the Cold
Most auto shops or auto part stores will check your battery for free. The cool weather can drain your car battery quickly, which can lead to you having to shell out money for a battery unexpectedly. Once you’ve had your car battery tested, you should do what you can to protect it throughout the season. Clean the terminals to ensure a solid connection and prevent corrosion. Use a battery blanket to keep it warm during freezing temperatures. Avoid draining the battery by limiting the use of lights and heaters when the car isn’t running. A well-maintained battery can last longer, saving you from an expensive mid-winter replacement.
5. Use Fuel-Efficient Driving Techniques
Another great car maintenance tip for the colder months is adopting fuel-efficient habits. This will help you save money on gas throughout the winter. Here are some key tips:
- Avoid warming up your car for more than a minute; modern engines don’t require long idling times.
- Drive smoothly, avoiding sudden acceleration and braking, which consume more fuel.
- Keep your tires properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance and improve mileage.
- Remove unnecessary weight, like winter gear or roof racks, when not in use.
Each of these changes, while small, can help you save at the pump.
6. Inspect and Maintain Your Heating System
Nobody wants to be without heat in their car in the winter and, in some locations, it can be downright unsafe not to have it. Make sure you get your system inspected early in the season. This will help you catch any problems and potentially avoid costly repairs. Be sure to check the coolant levels and top them off to prevent overheating. You should also replace cabin air filters to ensure your heating system is efficient and improve the air quality in your vehicle.
It is also advisable to listen for unusual noises when the heater is running, as these could signal a problem. Addressing heating issues promptly can save you hundreds in repairs down the line.
7. Use Preventative Measures to Avoid Repairs
As a former mechanic, I can say that preventative care goes a long way with your car. It can save you from expensive trips to the shop down the road, especially in the winter. It’s a good idea to wash your car on a regular basis to remove road salt, which can cause rust and corrode your vehicle. After washing your car, dry it and apply a protective wax coating. This will help prevent damage throughout the colder months. I’d also recommend storing your vehicle in a garage if possible. The weather can have a negative impact on your car and, trust me, you don’t want to have to repair rust on your car. It can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars and it’s often necessary to pass inspection.
Keep Your Car and Wallet Happy This Winter
Anyone looking to save $500 or more on winter car maintenance should take note of these seven things. You can perform some maintenance tasks on your own and get ahead of problems with your vehicle in the cold weather. Taking these tips can help you keep your car in the best condition without straining your budget too much. Remember, even the smallest things can make a huge difference in the way your car runs.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.