Owning a car doesn’t just mean making the monthly payment, it also comes with ongoing costs that add up fast. Between insurance premiums, trips to the gas station, and regular maintenance, many drivers feel the squeeze on their budget. The good news? With some smart strategies, you can cut back on these expenses without sacrificing safety or reliability.

Cutting Down Car Insurance Costs

  • Shop around regularly. Rates change over time, and different companies weigh your driving record, credit, and location differently. Checking quotes once a year can pay off.
  • Bundle policies. If you also need renters, home, or life insurance, you might save by combining them with one provider.
  • Ask about discounts. Many insurers offer savings for good students, safe driving programs, or installing anti-theft devices.
  • Raise your deductible. If you can afford a higher out-of-pocket expense in case of a claim, this can lower your monthly premium.

Getting More Miles for Your Gas Money

  • Drive smarter. Rapid acceleration and hard braking burn more fuel than steady driving.
  • Check your tires. Properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3%.
  • Lighten the load. Extra weight in your trunk or roof racks can drag down fuel efficiency.
  • Use apps to find the cheapest stations. A few cents per gallon saved adds up over time.
  • Consider carpooling or combining errands. Fewer trips mean less gas wasted.

Saving on Maintenance and Repairs

  • Stay ahead of schedule. Oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks prevent small issues from becoming expensive breakdowns.
  • Do simple tasks yourself. Things like replacing windshield wipers, air filters, or headlights are beginner-friendly and much cheaper than shop labor.
  • Use a trusted mechanic. Building a relationship with a local shop can mean fairer pricing and honest advice.
  • Watch for warning signs. Catching noises, leaks, or dashboard lights early often saves money in the long run.

 

Lower your car payment. $300 cash. No payments for 90 days. Yep, that’s real.

If your auto loan isn’t working for you, we can help. Refinance with Climb and you could get $300 in cash, up to 3% APR* off your current rate, and no payments for 3 months. Qualified members could save over $100 a month — that’s nearly $8,000 over the life of your loan.

See how much you could save at climbcu.org/refi

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Membership required. Loans subject to credit approval. Interest accrues during payment deferral. Offer excludes existing Climb loans, motorcycles, and RVs. Other terms and conditions apply.