A car is but a very big investment. After the multi-thousand and even a million worth of car purchase, that sleek and sexy dream vehicle becomes our baby and sometimes, an obsession. We all invest much in our cars, and maintaining them is part of keeping a dream or wish that has been achieved. But some of us manage to outdo ourselves in this department - spending more than what's necessary on our cars.
From msn.com, here's a list of the 20 ways on how we spend too much on our vehicles. You can now check if you are guilty of one of it, or worse, all of it.
Premium gas instead of regular. The cheapest gasoline that doesbt not make your engine knock is the most practical fuel.
3,000-mile oil changes. Typical suggestions for oil changes range from 5,000 miles, 7,500 miles and even longer. As much as you can. Follow it.
Taking false economies. Quality car parts serve longer.
Using the dealer's maintenance schedule instead of the factory's. Stick to the manufacturer's schedule and not the dealer's unless your car is not running well.
Using dealer for major services. Other shops does the same work, and yes, much cheaper.
Using dealer for oil changes. The dealers of your vehicles sometimes offer dirt-chip specials, don't fall for their tricks.
Not replacing your air filter and wiper blades yourself. Labor for replacement still scratches your cash, a little learning how on to replace car parts on your own wont hurt after all.
Going to any old repair shop. Make sure that your repair shop is an ASE-certified (A good housekeeping seal of approval from the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence).
Changing your Anti-freeze every winter. A need for Anti-freeze replacement arises when it can no longer bear temperature 30 degrees below the coldest your area sees during winter.
Replacing tires when you should be replacing shocks. Alignment must not be mistaken for shock or strut replacements.
Letting a brake squeal turn into a brake job. A squeal not necessarily means rotors or pad replacements.
Not complaining when your warranty claim is rejected. Check if there is a secret warranty (manufacturers will repair known defects outside the regular warranty). Know what services you can rightfully avail.
Not keeping records. A logbook of every repair or service your car had is always helpful. It's like a medical record.
Buying an extended warranty. Know if your car really needs an extended warranty. Only troublesome car usually need it.
Over Insuring. Do not skimp on liability.
Assuming the problem is major. In cases of car troubles, first check those will cost you less...not the radiator or catalytic converter (original is still the best replacements for Honda vehicles) right away.
Not changing the fuel filter. Replacement of fuel filter is part of maintenance.
Not knowing how to change a tire. Personal tire replacement is much cheaper, and a faster too.
Not keeping your tires properly inflated. Checking your tires once a month can save you pennies.
Car washes. A little rise in your water bill wont hurt as much as commercial car washes.
