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Make big savings on motoring costs this year

29 January 2007

Changing driving habits and shopping around could save motorists hundreds of pounds this year, according to Green Flag. In fact, the breakdown service says through a combination of changes in car usage and by cutting costs, the average motorist (1) could pocket around £810 in savings this year.

Spokesperson Philippa Naylor commented: "Next to housing costs, owning and running a car is one of the biggest household expenses for many people. Over a year running a car can cost some people almost £5,000 (1), so any economies we can make are very welcome. Hopefully, our practical advice and money saving tips will give people ideas on how to lessen the financial burden."

Drive a hard bargain

If buying a car - whether new or used - remember to haggle. Some dealers are prepared to offer discounts of between ten and 30 per cent (2). If the dealer is unable to move on price, try asking for free extras like mud flaps, mats and paint treatments.

Down with depreciation

Depreciation is the highest cost of running a car so choosing the right make and model can save money in the long run. Some cars hold their value better than others so be sure to check depreciation rates provided by most car magazines and guides. You could also opt to take guaranteed asset protection (GAP) a policy that covers the shortfall if a car you are buying on finance is written off in an accident.

Ensure the best insurance

Insurance is a competitive industry, so shop around for the best value for money. A history of careful driving, fitting approved security devices, or storing your car in a garage can help reduce your risk to insurers (3).

Save on fuel and share the cost of travel

The price of fuel in the UK is considered high compared to other European countries. By shopping around for diesel and petrol fuel and taking a few simple steps to reduce fuel consumption there are savings to be made. Economise by sharing journeys with friends or colleagues and avoid making lots of short trips - one multi-purpose journey will use less fuel. Shop around for fuel - websites are available where you can search for the cheapest fuel in your area.

Slow down spending

Driving within the speed limits is easy to do and good for the planet. Cars use up to 25 per cent more fuel at 70mph that they do at 50mph (4), so easing off the accelerator could make that tank of fuel go a little further.

Lose weight and feel the benefit

Removing heavy items stored in the car and detaching bikes or roof racks can save around ten per cent in fuel costs (5). Added weight puts more strain on the car leading to higher fuel consumption and if bulky can make the car less aero dynamic. In summer, limit the use of air conditioning as this gulps fuel.

Prevent expensive repairs

Making regular maintenance checks on your car could prevent major problems in the long term and may prevent a breakdown which can be costly if you cannot fix the vehicle yourself or do not have breakdown cover. By carrying out basic maintenance checks on tyre pressure and tread depth, oil and water levels, you could prevent costly problems. Flat batteries are the number one cause of breakdown for Green Flag, so get this checked at your service.

Don't fight the law

Speeding, using a handheld mobile behind the wheel or going through a red light all attract fines and add points on the driving licence which in turn can increase your insurance premium. Staying within the law never looked so sensible.

For more information about Green Flag and motoring visit www.greenflag.com

ENDS

Notes to editors

According to the Henley Centre, the average cost of driving and owning a car in the UK is £4,997 (based on a 45-year-old male motorist living in Peterborough, driving 12,500 miles a year in a Ford Focus 1.6 LX 5 door hatchback). The average cost of fuel pa based on Henley Centre research = £1,247.

Fuel savings:

Sources:

  1. Henley Centre Headlight Vision
  2. Green Flag internal statistics
  3. UK Insurance Ltd
  4. Friends of the Earth
  5. Motley Fool

Media calls

For further information contact Philippa Naylor at Green Flag on 0113 399 1387 (out of hours 07711 964 615).
Public-relations@greenflag.com

Calls may be monitored and / or recorded.

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