Don't Let That Car Drain Your Wallet With These Great Tips!

Cars are expensive. If you don't properly maintain your car, it could cost you thousands to fix. And who has that kind of money? Well, hopefully, you do if you've been diligently building your emergency fund. If you're on a tight budget, you may be reluctant to take your car in for regular maintenance, but it could save you thousands in the long run.

So what should you do to avoid a costly bill? 

1. Get your oil changed regularly. A standard oil change can cost anywhere between $20 and $55—more if you're using synthetic. Getting your oil changed every 3,000-5,000 miles (depending on your car) is a lot less expensive than having to replace your engine.
2. Rotate your tires. This helps them wear evenly. This will cost you around $25 to $50. New tires can cost an upwards of $700. While you're at it, check your air pressure and alignment. Some places will put air in your tires for free. 
3. Check your brakes. Good brakes are very important. They can prevent you from having an accident where you or someone else gets hurt, or worse. Getting new brake pads are a little more costly. You're looking at a minimum of $150 and a maximum of slightly under $400. However, when you factor in the cost of repairs and your insurance premiums going up, or even more precious—your life, that cost is minimal.
4. Keep your battery clean. Just like regular batteries, your car battery can have a build up of corrosion. This can cause damage to the battery and without your battery, you're not going anywhere. Clearing corrosion from the battery terminals isn't expensive at all. You can even do it yourself. 
5. Change your spark plugs and filters. If you live in a state that has emissions tests, this is a big one. The cost of the test and repairs to make your car compliant will cost hundreds. Not only does this put a strain on your wallet, but on the environment as well.

When it comes to car maintenance, you need to be proactive, not reactive. Read through your car's owner manual and see what the scheduled maintenance is. Research the cost and budget for it. You'll extend the life of your car and your emergency fund.