Households up and down the country are searching for ways to bring down their bills as the cost of living crisis looms.
Motor vehicle owners are among those who have already started to feel the pinch after the conflict in Ukraine drove us fuel prices.
To assist drivers, many experts have started offering their ideas on how you could save money, Derbyshire Live reports. Automotive business Peter Vardy has stated seven changes that could keep your outgoings down.
Use supermarket garages
Research has revealed that drivers could save up to £74.10 a year by avoiding branded petrol stations, and instead visiting supermarket petrol stations which are cheaper than other petrol forecourts.
Avoid premium fuel
Many people follow the theory that paying for premium fuel is more efficient in the long run.
However, Peter Vardy believes it is often not worth the extra cost for many vehicles.
The automotive business, however, said: "In reality, unless you’re driving a performance vehicle, you’re unlikely to see many improvements – but you will pay an average of 10p more per litre.
"By sticking to standard unleaded, drivers can save themselves £138.32 per year."
Don't make unnecessary trips
It sounds simple and obvious but if the location you are visiting is relatively close, Peter Vardy recommends ditching your car for a cheaper mode of transport.
Not only will walking or cycling improve your health and fitness, but it will also save you money and help the environment.
Those who are unable to travel far due to health conditions, can still save money by travelling with a friend or neighbour and splitting the costs, reports Leicestershire Live.
Pay road tax annually
Paying road tax by direct debit or in installments will end up costing more in the long run, according to Peter Vardy. Paying your tax in one lump sum could save you £29 a year.
They said: "While it may be easier to spread the cost of road tax, it ends up costing more in the long run. Saving up to pay it in one lump sum can save you £29 per year."
Shed weight
The heavier a car is, the more fuel it will consume during a journey. So, it would be helpful to remove any items on or inside your car that are not needed.
According to the price comparison site Compare the Market, removing items such as roof-racks or boxes will also reduce wind resistance - and hence fuel consumption.
Do your own car maintenance
The better maintained a car is, the less money it will cost drivers in repair and maintenance costs.
Carrying out regular checks on your car and spotting any issues before they get worse is a key piece of advice because the bigger the repair - the larger the bill.
"By performing your own regular car maintenance checks, spotting standard wear and tear and fixing it before it becomes a problem, you can avoid paying the average annual repair cost of £574," said Peter Vardy.
Keep car insurance bills down
According to Money Saving Expert, the golden rule is to never automatically renew your car insurance. This is because motorists who shop around often get a better deal.
Haggling for a reduction in your car insurance is also reasonable behaviour and can often prove successful.
It is sometimes better to get quotes directly from an insurance firm rather than price comparison websites.
Drivers can then check if cashback sites can beat the quotes they have been given.
