Late-night study sessions and ramen noodles are part of the classic college experience.
Unfortunately, so are surprise car repair bills. When money is tight, a trip to the mechanic can be a headache.
The good news is that with a few simple skills, you can save big on car maintenance and stay on top of your budget as a college student.
Master Your Fluid Levels
Fluids are essential to keeping your engine running smoothly. Checking your oil and coolant levels takes a few minutes and can save you trouble down the road. Most gas stations have free paper towels, so you can easily check the dipstick. If the levels are low, top them off yourself—it’s cheaper than paying for the product and labor.
Prioritize Tire Health
Replacing tires is expensive, but you can easily extend their life by keeping them properly inflated. Check the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb to find the correct pressure for your vehicle. Driving under-inflated tires increases road drag, which wastes fuel and causes the tread to wear down prematurely.
Rotate your tires every few oil changes to ensure they wear evenly. If you bought your tires from a shop, they might even offer free rotations. To check the tread depth, just use a penny—if you can’t see Lincoln’s head, your tires are good to go!
Address High-Mileage Needs
Most college students drive older cars handed down from family or bought for a low price. These older vehicles need different care than brand-new models. For example, ignition parts wear out, which can lower your gas mileage and cost you more at the pump.
If your ride has seen better days, upgrading to high-quality parts can breathe new life into it. Investing in the best spark plugs for high-mileage cars is a great way to restore performance.
Swap Your Own Air Filters
Replacing your car’s air filters is easier and cheaper than you think. A dirty engine air filter can hurt acceleration, but fixing it is simple—just find the black plastic box near the engine, unclip it, and swap the filter. You can also change your cabin air filter, which sits behind the glovebox and cleans the air you breathe.
Build a Basic Trunk Kit
You don’t need a professional garage to handle minor issues, as a small collection of tools can help you tackle most fixes.
Essentials for Your Kit
- Jumper cables: These are crucial for reviving a dead battery
- Tire pressure gauge: Use this to ensure your tires are properly inflated
- Multi-bit screwdriver: This versatile tool tightens loose screws
- Adjustable wrench: Perfect for handling various nuts and bolts, such as on a battery terminal
- Bright flashlight: A flashlight with fresh batteries helps you see under the hood, especially at night
Owning a car during school doesn’t have to ruin your finances. Take control of your vehicle’s health today. You’ll feel more confident behind the wheel knowing you’re saving on maintenance as a college student.
Image Credentials: saving on car maintenance By pathdoc, File 172975174
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