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.

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.

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.

Tip 15: Plan Your Errands

Save fuel by combining errands into one trip and avoid backtracking whenever possible.

  

Potential Money Savings: $25-100/yr.

Tip 13: Check Fluid Levels Regularly

Check fluid levels regularly. Check coolant, automatic transmission fluid, brake and clutch fluids.

Potential Money Savings: $50-300/yr.

Tip 12: Ask Your Insurance Agent Before Buying a New Car

Before buying a new car, ask your insurance agent whether the model you are considering will require a surcharge due to higher theft, damage or repair costs.   

Potential Money Savings:  $50-200/yr.