Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Tip 21: Use Less Expensive Gas


Unless your car is knocking and pinging, don't use a higher octane gas than your owner's manual recommends. For most cars, premium gasoline offers no benefit. Unless your car has a high-performance engine and your manufacturer recommends a high-octane gas, use the less expensive gas. Premium gas costs 10% to 15% higher than regular. 

Potential Money Savings: $200-400/yr.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Tip 20: Shop Around for Insurance


Shop around for insurance. If you're getting good service from your company and are happy with the rates, you may want to stay with them, especially if you have had accidents or tickets. But if your record is good, shop around to see how much you can save, then decide if the savings are worth the switch. 

Potential Money Savings:  $50-200/yr.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Tip 19: Car Pool to Work


Car pool to work. By sharing the driving with just one other person, you could save an average of $20/month or $200/year in gasoline alone,  if your commute is 40 kilometers round-trip each day. Sharing the driving with two others increases your savings even more. Savings vary depending on the length of your commute.  In addition to savings on gasoline, you'll save maintenance costs and wear and tear on your car.

Potential Money Savings:  $400-700/yr.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Tip 18: Combine Insurance


Consider combining your auto and homeowner's insurance under one policy. Many insurers give a discount for multiple policies. 

Potential Money Savings: $50-200/yr.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Tip 17: Balance Your Tires


Add thousands of miles to the life of your tires by having them balanced once a year. In addition to destroying the tread, improperly balanced tires can wear out your shock absorbers and damage your suspension system, leading to more expense.

Potential Money Savings: $175-250/yr.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Tip 16: Avoid Tickets


Avoid tickets for speeding or moving violations. Many insurance companies give a discount of up to 20% if you have not had an accident or ticket for three years or more.

Potential Money Savings: $100/yr or more.