Cars are essential for everyday life but they’re also one of the most expensive things most of us will ever buy. And the costs don’t stop once you drive away from the forecourt.
Back in 2018, a KwikFit survey estimated cars cost £162 per month (excluding the cost of buying one). With today’s higher prices, it’s likely closer to £200, or more.
So, how can you keep your car safely on the road without breaking the bank?
While you can’t control fuel or insurance costs much, you can influence what you spend on maintenance.
Understand the real cost of car care in the UK
On average, UK drivers spend £617 per year on unexpected repairs. That’s before scheduled services, MOTs and consumables like tyres and brakes.
Preventive maintenance and smart shopping are the key to cutting this down.
Further reading: How to handle a temporary financial setback
Save money on fuel and insurance
Insurance: Comparing providers each year remains one of the easiest ways to save.
Fuel: Use apps like PetrolPrices to compare forecourts near you. Driving a few extra minutes for cheaper fuel is only worth it if the saving outweighs the detour.
Save money on… car maintenance
Now to those tips on saving money on car maintenance. Many of them will be common sense while others may be new to you.
Use one, use them all, they will save you money!
Perform your own pre-MOT check
Small fixes before the MOT test save money.
Example: A brake light bulb costs £1.50 if you replace it yourself. A garage may charge £10–£20 once labour is included.
Check:
- Windscreen chips
- Lights and indicators
- Wipers and washer fluid
- Tyre tread depth (use a 20p coin test)
Shop around for tyres and parts
Car parts: For DIY repairs, shop sites like Euro Car Parts or local suppliers. Always confirm compatibility with your make and model.
Tyres: Prices vary widely. Compare national chains, mobile fitters, and local garages. Budget tyres can be half the price of branded versions and still road-legal.
Learn basic car maintenance
DIY skills save hundreds over a car’s lifetime.
Start with:
- Changing bulbs and wiper blades
- Replacing an air filter
- Checking oil and coolant
- Swapping a flat tyre
YouTube tutorials and your owner’s manual make these straightforward.
Perform regular checks on your car
A 10-minute check every month can prevent costly breakdowns.
Look for:
- Noises like squealing brakes or rough idling
- Uneven tyre wear (indicates alignment issues)
- Fluid leaks under the car
- Warning lights (investigate promptly, don’t ignore)
Investigate warning lights
Not all dashboard lights mean an expensive fix.
Example: A tyre pressure light could just need a quick top-up at the petrol station. An engine warning might be a loose fuel cap. Always research the meaning before panicking.
Preventive maintenance that pays off
- Replace your radiator cap every 5–6 years (under £5) to maintain coolant pressure and extend engine life.
- Spray silicone on door seals annually to prevent damp and reduce heating inefficiency.
- Stick to manufacturer service schedules. Skipping oil or filter changes often leads to more expensive repairs later.
Find a garage you can trust
Most UK garages are honest, but costs vary.
- Test a garage with a small job (e.g. oil change) before trusting them with major repairs.
- Ask neighbours or check local Facebook groups for recommendations.
- Read Google and Trustpilot reviews.
Consider the bigger picture: EVs and lower servicing
If you’re planning a car change, remember EVs can cost 40–60% less to maintain (no oil changes, fewer moving parts).
But once warranties expire, specialist repairs may cost more, so weigh this carefully.
Saving money on car maintenance
Saving money on car maintenance comes down to three things
- Do what you can yourself.
- Shop around for everything.
- Fix problems quickly as leaving them always costs more.
Follow those principles and you’ll cut costs, learn new skills, and build confidence in managing your car.
Saving money on car maintenance FAQs
1. How much do UK drivers spend on car maintenance each year?
On average, around £617 goes on unexpected repairs annually. Factoring in MOTs, servicing and tyres, the total can be much higher. Preventive checks and smart shopping help keep this down.
2. What car maintenance jobs can I do myself?
Simple tasks like topping up oil and coolant, replacing bulbs, swapping wipers, and checking tyre pressures. These cost pennies compared to garage labour charges.
3. Is replacing a radiator cap really worth it?
Yes. A £5 radiator cap helps maintain coolant pressure. Replacing it every 5–6 years can reduce engine wear and potentially double its lifespan.
4. Are electric cars really cheaper to maintain?
Generally, yes. EVs have fewer moving parts and no oil system, so servicing is simpler and cheaper. Brake wear is also lower due to regenerative braking. But battery and specialist repairs can be costly post-warranty.
5. How do I choose the right garage without overpaying?
Compare quotes, read reviews, and ask for recommendations. Independent garages often cost less than main dealers while still using quality parts. Try them with a small job first to build trust.
