As a car owner, you know how expensive it can be to keep your vehicle in good shape. Between gas, maintenance, and repairs, it can feel like you’re constantly pouring money into your car. However, by taking some simple precautions, you can save money by avoiding car damage in the first place.
Be a Safe Driver
One way to do this is to be a safe driver. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are an average of 16,438 car crashes per day in the United States. While you can’t control the actions of other drivers, you can reduce your own risk of being involved in an accident by following traffic laws, keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, and being alert at all times.
Park Carefully
Another way to avoid car damage is to be mindful of where you park. Over 90% of parking areas in the United States are surfaced with asphalt pavement, which can be rough on your car’s suspension and tires. If possible, try to park on a grassy or gravel surface to reduce the wear and tear on your car.
Watch Out
Another factor that can contribute to car damage is poor visibility. If your headlights are dim or your windshield wipers are worn out, you may have a harder time seeing the road and avoiding potential hazards. According to Kelley Blue Book, cars with headlights that earned a good rating had 19% fewer crashes per mile than those with a poor rating. This shows the importance of keeping your headlights and other visibility systems in good working order.
Adopt Good Habits
Another way to avoid car damage is to be mindful of your driving habits. For example, rapid acceleration and braking can put additional strain on your car’s engine and transmission, leading to premature wear and tear. Similarly, driving at high speeds or aggressively can increase your risk of an accident, which can cause significant damage to your car.
Get Insured
It’s important to make sure you have adequate insurance coverage. While no one likes to think about the possibility of an accident or other unexpected event, having the right insurance can help protect you financially if something does happen. Make sure to shop around and compare policies to find the coverage that’s right for you.
Consider These Other Ideas
In addition to these precautions, there are a few other steps you can take to save money by avoiding car damage.
- Keep your car well-maintained. Regular maintenance can help you catch potential problems before they turn into costly repairs.
- Avoid driving over potholes and other road hazards. These can cause damage to your tires, suspension, and other parts of your car.
- Don’t overload your car. Excessive weight can put additional strain on your car’s suspension and tires, leading to premature wear and tear.
- Keep your car clean. Regular washing and waxing can help protect your car’s finish from the elements, reducing the need for costly repairs down the road.
- One additional tip for avoiding car damage is to be aware of the weather and road conditions. If you’re driving in heavy rain, snow, or other adverse conditions, take extra caution to avoid hydroplaning or skidding. You may also want to consider switching to winter tires if you live in an area with frequent snow and ice.
These are just a few steps you can take to save money by avoiding car damage. It starts with being conscientious in general and by driving safely, parking in appropriate areas, and keeping your car well-maintained, you can reduce the risk of costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly for years to come.
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