Has it really been over a decade since the banking crisis of 2007-2008? While other economies have fully recovered from the global financial collapse, the UK has had one of the most sluggish post-crisis recoveries in the developed world, along with debt stricken Greece. As a result, many of us (especially teachers, nurses, civil servants and other public sector workers) have experienced wage caps that have seen their families feel the pinch for years to come. The good news is that you can still live a relatively luxurious life while making some substantial savings. We’ve already looked at some ways in which you can dramatically reduce the cost of eating out, but here we’re going to take a close look at cutting down the cost of transportation.
Of course, we all need to get about, but that simple truth needn’t mean that we should give up on any dreams of having the disposable income we need to add flavour to our lives. Here are some ways in which economy conscious households can scythe down the cost of transport…
Rethink your assumptions about car insurance
We all know that car insurance companies are out for whatever they can get from us and it’s a mistake to assume that any insurer will reward your loyalty. Indeed, sticking with your policy when it expires is almost never the best thing to do. Although there’s been something of a clamp down on ripoff insurance renewals in recent years, it’s always worth using a price comparison site to see how much you could save. Moreover, choosing a 3rd party fire and theft policy doesn’t necessarily get you the best value for money, nor is it always cheaper. Finally,you don’t even have to stick out your policy for the full year if you see a better offer elsewhere. While many companies will charge a cancellation fee this will most likely pale in comparison to how much you could save by switching.
Ask yourself “do we really need two cars?”
You’ve probably answered “yes, absolutely!” by reflex, but many families need only one car. Sometimes, substantial savings can be made by swapping the second family car for a bike or motorcycle. Motorbikes are cheaper, lower maintenance and cheaper to keep running than cars. That said, ensure that you’re a confident rider before you set out on the road. A motorcycle accident attorney can help you if you’re injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. Nonetheless, there are a few ways in which you’ll need to be more aware as a motorcyclist. On the other hand, you’ll have a better field of vision and better hazard perception than in a car.
Know what you need when it comes to servicing
Finally, while an oil change service is necessary every 12 months or 10,000 miles (whichever comes first), it’s important not to let your garage rip you off by offering you unnecessary extras. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need every service;
- 10,000 miles- Oil change
- 20,000 miles- Oil change and pollen filter
- 30,000 miles- Oil change
- 40,000 miles- Oil change, pollen filter and spark plugs for petrol vehicles or fuel filter for diesel cars.
This cycle is then repeated throughout the car’s life cycle. Obviously this does not include haldex oil changes for gearboxes that need it. Brake fluid should be changed roughly every 20,000 miles.
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