Showing posts with label Budgeting Your Money. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Budgeting Your Money. Show all posts

Saturday, January 8, 2022

4 Things to Budget for When It Comes to Your Car


All cars have one thing in common: they all end up needing some sort of maintenance and repairs at some point in their lives. Not all repairs are equally expensive or intensive. 

Sometimes it’s a simple oil change or refill of windshield wiper fluid, while other times you need whole parts or systems replaced as they wear out or fall into disrepair. 

Therefore, it is important that you budget for the different sorts of car repair costs, setting aside money for big and little repairs so you’re prepared when the time comes. Below are four things to include in your car budget.

Oil Change


Most manufacturers recommend that you change your oil every 3,000 miles or three months. On average, you will spend $50 on your oil change.

An oil change is standard automobile maintenance. Clean oil is key to keeping your car running as it should. If you neglect your oil changes, your car will experience preventable and expensive issues that could lead to you seeking an emergency car repair from services like J&T Automotive.

Tire Replacement


Tires are what protect your car from the road. In fact, they are the only part of your car that comes in contact with the road. When you stop, turn, or accelerate, your tires bear the brunt of this movement.




Tires have uniquely designed tread patterns to improve traction and make it possible for you to maneuver safely. With time, the tread wears down and is no longer safe or reliable. 

Tire prices vary based on the vehicle you have and the quality of tire you want. However, you should expect to replace your tires every 50,000 miles for an average cost of around $650 for the four tires.

Brake Maintenance


It is recommended that you replace your brake pads every 25,000 to 50,000 miles. You should expect to pay around $200. Every two years, you should flush your brake fluid. This will set you back around $100.

Your braking system is the hardest working system in your vehicle. Just think about the friction required to cause a 3,000-pound car to brake. Routine maintenance can help prevent a major car repair involving the calipers and rotors.

Tire Rotation


Tire rotation is recommended every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. On average, it will cost about $30. Your front tires support a larger weight because of your motor being in the front of the vehicle. 

They wear at a different rate than the rear tires. If your tires become unevenly worn, you can have issues with your suspension.

In addition to the repairs mentioned above, you will have to factor in money for things like wheel alignment, wiper blades, and any unexpected issues you might have never realized could be something to worry about or didn’t realize needed replacing so soon. 

After all, the chance of something getting damaged before its time is never zero. Budgeting auto maintenance in your overall budget is not difficult. Set aside a little bit of money every single month in a car fund.



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