Save Pennies on Gas

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When gas prices rise, most drivers feel helpless. We all need gas to keep our cars running—it’s not one of those things we can’t exactly choose to go without this week. But what if we could have a say in how much money we wanted to save at the pump?

Instead of dreaming of an electric car, let’s be realistic:

  • Gas prices tend to go up a few cents on the weekends. To maximize the pennies you can save, only buy gas on Wednesday or Thursday. Stay away from gas stations found along major highways since these will be more expensive. Also avoid stations that are so far out of the way that their cost goes up due to a longer delivery. Check sites or use phone apps that allow you to find the cheapest gas in your area. If it’s out of your way, ask yourself if you’ll really be saving by burning the extra gas to get there.
  • Lose weight. Maybe not the weight you’ve put on, although losing that may help, but the extra weight you’re carrying around in the trunk means your car is burning more fuel. You should also limit your driving and plan errands accordingly.
  • Turn off your engine while you’re sitting in the drive-thru. It’s a myth that your car burns more gas upon restarting than if you simply turned it off.
  • Keep your car maintained. A healthy car will run more efficiently and offer better mileage.

Remember to fill your tank up completely instead of wasting trips to the station for mini-fills. The money you save will start to add up sooner than you think.

 

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What You Need to Know About Getting Auto Insurance

A wrecked car in Durham, North Carolina.

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The type of auto insurance you need will be determined by your age, your vehicle, your driving record, and your state’s requirements. Insuring your vehicle is required by law, but you have a choice when it comes to insurance.

The best way to find the right insurance for you is to ask around. Anyone who has a good insurance agent will happily let you in on their secret. If you’re new in town, ask the neighbors, your landlord or real estate agent, or even the cashier at the grocery store.

Always obtain free quotes. You can do this online or by calling around. If you’d like, contact an insurance broker to find the best policy for you and your family.

Let your insurance agent determine how much coverage you need. No one else is more versed in the state’s requirements. You can ask what additional options are available but not required and make a decision based on your budget.

When comparing insurance quotes, consider the company’s reputation, payment policy, mailing fees, and discounts. The cheapest rate may end up being more costly if you get into an accident.

Don’t forget to cancel your old coverage. Ideally you would have contacted your previous insurance company to inquire about any early cancellation fees. These are generally not required if your old insurance company is not licensed in your new state. Keep your old proof of insurance with you at all times until you receive your new proof of insurance or a temporary card.

 

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Buying Pre-Owned

Automobiles are among the most commonly used e...

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Buying a car is an exciting event. There’s the new car smell, the feel of a new steering wheel beneath your fingers, and a better quality sound system serenading you on the lot. It’s all so surreal until you sign your name under the total amount.

It’s no secret that new cars lose substantial value as soon as they’re driven off the lot. This means you’re losing thousands of dollars in the first two minutes of enjoying your new vehicle. Is it even worth it?

Used auto dealers may not extend 0% financing, but even a modest interest rate on a used car will be a better deal than a brand new one at 0% interest. We’re talking thousands of dollars in savings.

Many buyers want the new car for the warranty, but pre-owned vehicles come with warranties too. Many of them still have tens of thousands of miles left on their warranties, so don’t count them out just yet!

If you’re buying from an individual without a warranty, inspect the car and test drive it before forking over the cash. It’s also a good idea to ask for the car’s service records and whether or not it was involved in any accidents. Get the vehicle’s VIN number and look up its history report.

Visit government and bank auctions. Many of these vehicles are in excellent condition—they were simply repossessed for the lack of the owner’s ability to pay.

Always keep your budget in mind when buying a new vehicle and consider all options. A pre-owned vehicle is new to you, and sometimes that’s all that matters.

 

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