How to Save Money on Your Car in the UK

Owning a car in the UK can be expensive. Between fuel, insurance, repairs, and tax, the costs quickly add up. However, with a few smart habits, you can keep your car running well and your bank account healthier.

Save Money on Your Car by Driving More Smoothly

One of the easiest ways to save money on your car is to change the way you drive. Accelerating hard and braking sharply uses more fuel. Smooth driving keeps fuel use down and puts less stress on your brakes and tyres, which means they last longer. The Department for Transport says driving more efficiently can improve fuel economy by up to 15%, which can save hundreds of pounds each year if you drive often.

Save Money on Your Car with Regular Maintenance

Skipping routine checks might save money today, but it can cost much more in the future. Regular oil changes, topping up fluids, and checking tyre pressure can prevent expensive repairs. Tyres that are under-inflated can make your car use more fuel, and uneven wear can mean you need to replace them sooner. A quick check once a week can make a big difference to running costs.

Save Money on Your Car Insurance

Many people simply renew their insurance with the same provider each year. This often means you pay more than you should. Research from the Financial Conduct Authority found that loyal customers can pay up to £200 more a year compared to new customers for the same cover. Use price comparison websites, but also try contacting insurers directly to see if they can beat the online price. Being flexible with things like your excess or adding security features can also help reduce premiums.

Save Money By Planning Your Journeys

Short, unnecessary trips can waste fuel and add wear to your car. Try to combine errands into one trip and avoid driving in heavy traffic where possible. Not only will you use less fuel, but you’ll also reduce the strain on your engine and brakes. Walking or cycling for short journeys will also help keep costs down and is better for your health.

Save Money on Car Fuel

Fuel prices vary between stations, even within the same town. PetrolPrices.com reports that shopping around can save drivers up to £220 a year. Supermarket petrol stations are often cheaper than motorway service stations. Filling up when you pass a cheaper station, rather than waiting until your tank is nearly empty, can help you avoid paying top prices.

Save Money on Petrol By Avoiding Unnecessary Weight

Carrying extra weight means your engine has to work harder. Clear out your boot and remove roof racks or boxes when they are not in use. These small changes make your car more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient, especially on longer trips.

Save With Simple DIY Fixes

Some small car repairs are easy to do at home with a little guidance. Replacing windscreen wipers, changing light bulbs, or topping up washer fluid takes just a few minutes and basic tools. This can save you paying garage labour costs for simple jobs.

How Much Do You Save Buying a Second Hand Vehicle?

While a new car can be tempting, it loses value quickly. On average, a new car can lose around 20% of its value in the first year alone. A well-looked-after used car can be much cheaper to buy and insure, and it may have already passed through the steepest part of its depreciation.

Saving money on your car is not about one big change, but about many small habits. Driving smoothly, maintaining your car, shopping around for insurance, and making smart choices about fuel and trips all add up. Over a year, these habits can mean hundreds of pounds back in your pocket—money you can use for the things you really enjoy.