5 Ways to Save Money on Car Care

Article overview

• The cost of car maintenance: Maintaining a new SUV costs an average of $1,769 annually, but smart strategies can help you save.
• Preventive maintenance tips: Regular oil changes, tire rotations and seasonal checks can prevent costly repairs.
• DIY maintenance: Simple tasks like changing air filters, checking tire pressure and replacing wipers can save time and money.
• Finding trusted repair shops: Use AAA.com/AAACarCareLocations to locate AAA-owned Car Care and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities with ASE-certified technicians.

Keeping your vehicle in good condition can come with a hefty price tag. According to AAA, maintaining a new medium-sized SUV driven approximately 15,000 miles annually costs an average of $1,769 per year, which breaks down to about $8.47 per mile.

Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to manage these expenses without compromising on care. By focusing on preventive maintenance, you can prevent many problems before they occur.

When professional help is needed, knowing how to find a quality repair facility and understanding what services should cost will empower you to make informed decisions.

We’ll also explore how to make the most of your AAA Member benefits for exclusive savings. Additionally, we'll share some simple DIY tips for gas, hybrid and electric vehicles that can help you reduce costs and keep your car running smoothly.

Preventive maintenance: Reduce problems

The most effective way to keep repair costs down is to avoid them in the first place. Staying on top of preventive maintenance—like regular oil changes, tire rotations and keeping your tires properly inflated—can help you avoid bigger repairs down the road.

Tracking your vehicle’s maintenance schedule using apps or a simple calendar reminder ensures that important tasks never get overlooked. Many tools can also help you compare prices and book service appointments at trusted repair facilities. Don’t forget about seasonal checks, either; inspecting your car battery before winter, topping off fluids and checking your air conditioning before summer all go a long way.

Delaying service can increase vehicle wear and tear, potentially causing long-term damage that’s more expensive to fix. And if you’re not sure what kind of service your car needs, AAA-owned Car Care Centers and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities offer AAA Members a free vehicle maintenance inspection upon request with any paid service—a valuable tool for identifying potential problems.

Preventive maintenance checklist

Staying on top of regular maintenance is the best way to keep your car running reliably and avoid costly surprises down the road. While every car has unique needs outlined in its owner's manual, this checklist covers the essential preventive tasks for gas, electric and hybrid vehicles.

Locate a quality auto repair facility

Looking for a trusted auto repair shop? AAA.com/AAACarCareLocations is your go-to resource for finding reliable service. 

All of the AAA-owned Car Care locations and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities are organized and managed to AAA’s high standards for quality and reliability. These facilities often employ ASE-certified technicians, ensuring your vehicle is repaired correctly the first time. Use the search tool to filter by facility type and distance to find the best option near you.

All of the AAA-owned Car Care locations and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities offer AAA Members a free multi-point digital vehicle inspection with any paid service to give our Members peace of mind about their vehicle's health.

Plus, AAA Members also receive a 10% discount on repair labor (save up to $75) and get a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty at AAA-owned Car Care locations or a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities on repairs.

Selecting between independent mechanics, dealership service departments and chain stores

When it comes to auto repair, choosing the right type of facility can make a big difference in both quality and cost savings. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

• Independent mechanics:
  Independent repair shops are known for their personalized service and competitive pricing. Many independent mechanics establish long-term relationships with customers, providing customized solutions for routine maintenance and repairs. They’re often a cost-effective choice without compromising on quality.
• Dealership service departments:
  Dealerships specialize in repairs for specific makes and models, making them a great option for vehicles under warranty or for complex repairs. While their rates may be higher, they use manufacturer-approved parts and tools, ensuring precision and compatibility with your vehicle.
• Chain stores:
  National chain repair shops are a convenient choice for quick services like oil changes, tire rotations and battery replacements. They often offer promotions and standardized pricing, making them budget-friendly for basic maintenance. However, service quality can vary, so it’s wise to check reviews or recommendations before visiting.

By understanding the benefits of each option, you can make an informed decision that balances affordability and high-quality service, ensuring your vehicle gets the care it needs.

Know what repairs may cost

Being informed about the potential cost of auto repairs can help you feel more confident and prepared when visiting your mechanic. Whether it’s routine maintenance or a more complex repair, having a clear understanding of pricing is key.

One tool to utilize is the AAA Car Repair Costs estimator. Included in the online estimate are breakdowns for repair parts and labor costs.

AAA offers tools to help you estimate repair costs, including detailed breakdowns for parts, labor and any AAA Member discounts available at AAA-owned Car Care locations or AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities. These estimates give you a clearer picture of what to expect, so you can plan your budget and avoid surprises.

Negotiation tactics for car repair bills

Empowering yourself with knowledge about repair quotes and negotiation strategies can save you money and ensure you’re getting fair treatment. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

• Request a detailed quote: Always ask for a written estimate that breaks down the costs for parts, labor and any additional fees. This transparency allows you to compare quotes from different repair shops and identify any unnecessary charges.
• Research average costs: Use online tools or resources like AAA’s repair cost estimator to understand the typical price range for the service you need. This knowledge gives you leverage when discussing pricing with your mechanic.
• Ask about alternatives: If the cost of a repair seems high, inquire about alternative solutions. For example, ask if aftermarket parts or refurbished components are available, as these can often reduce costs without compromising quality.
• Leverage AAA Member discounts: AAA Members receive 10% discount on repair labor (up to $75) at AAA Owned Car Care locations and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities.
• Get a second opinion: If a quote seems unusually high or includes repairs you didn’t expect, consider getting a second opinion from another trusted repair shop. This can help you confirm the necessity of the repairs and ensure you’re not overpaying.
• Understand the warranty: Before agreeing to any repairs, ask about the shop’s warranty policy. Knowing what’s covered and for how long it lasts can save you money if the issue arises again.

By understanding repair quotes and using these negotiation tactics, you can take control of the repair process, avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure your vehicle gets the care it needs without breaking the bank.

Do it yourself DIY maintenance tips

Taking care of simple car maintenance tasks yourself can save time and money while keeping your vehicle in great shape. Here are step-by-step instructions for a few easy jobs:

Change your air filter

A clean air filter improves engine performance and fuel efficiency. Here’s how to replace it:

1. Locate the air filter box: Open your car’s hood and find the air filter housing, usually a rectangular box with clips or screws.
2. Remove the old filter: Open the housing, take out the old filter and note its orientation.
3. Insert the new filter: Place the new filter in the same position as the old one, ensuring it fits snugly.
4. Close the housing: Secure the lid with clips or screws, and you’re done!

Check tire pressure

Proper tire pressure improves safety, fuel efficiency and tire lifespan. Here’s how to check it:

1. Find the recommended pressure: Look for the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or in your owner’s manual.
2. Use a tire pressure gauge: Remove the valve cap from the tire, press the gauge onto the valve stem, and read the pressure.
3. Adjust as needed: If the pressure is too low, add air using a pump. If it’s too high, release air by pressing the valve stem.
4. Recheck and replace the cap: Double-check the pressure and screw the valve cap back on.

Replace windshield wipers

Replacing wiper blades is quick and ensures clear visibility in bad weather:

1. Lift the wiper arm: Pull the wiper arm away from the windshield until it locks in an upright position.
2. Remove the old blade: Press the small tab where the blade connects to the arm and slide the blade off.
3. Attach the new blade: Align the new blade with the arm and slide it into place until it clicks.
4. Test the wipers: Lower the arm back onto the windshield and test the wipers to ensure they work properly.

If you like doing your own maintenance and minor repairs, take advantage of AAA Discounts at partners such as NAPA Auto Parts, where AAA Members save 10% on most items. Always let the skilled technicians at a quality repair shop handle complicated repairs. Members can also reduce fuel costs by saving at least 5¢ per gallon at Shell when you join the Fuel Rewards® Program (terms apply).