Have you managed to get by without your own car up until this point, but now you’re ready to consider auto ownership? Would a car just make your life more convenient and simpler in terms of commuting to and from work, getting errands done, and giving you that freedom to travel anywhere you want to?
While a car can make a massive difference in your life, before you go ahead and make a purchase, it’s a good idea to inform yourself on extra expenses that go along with car ownership. It’s not meant to deter you from making a purchase; rather, it’s good to at least be aware of these costs so that you’re fully prepared. So, here’s a look at the common extra expenses to know about.
Car Insurance
The first thing to be aware of can be a pricey one, especially if you’re a new driver. Car insurance will be necessary to have in order to start driving, but keep in mind that it can cost up to hundreds of dollars per month. It’s a good idea to get some insurance quotes on various vehicles before you make a purchase decision, as it will vary by vehicle.
Regular Maintenance and Repairs
Regardless of whether you are purchasing a brand-new car straight off the dealership lot or a previously owned vehicle, maintenance is a part of car ownership. This is what ensures your car stays in good and reliable condition, and will prolong its lifespan.
As this professional auto repair Kansas City describes, some of the common maintenance you’ll need to have done is oil changes, brake inspection, topping up fluids, replacing the air filter, inspecting the electrical and battery system, suspension and struts, and more. There is a maintenance schedule that can be found in your car’s owner manual that can be very helpful to follow.
In terms of repairs, these can vary all over the board depending on the vehicle itself, how you drive it, what condition it was in when you bought it, the mileage, and so forth.
Winter Tires
This is an expense that won’t affect all drives, as it depends on where you live and the climate you live in. If you live in a region of the country that experiences ice and snow during the winter, then winter tires should be on the must-purchase list. These provide a much better grip on the road, giving you added control and safety.
Parking
For some people, the cost of parking will also be an added expense. You may have to pay to park at your own residence (purchasing or renting a spot, which is common in big cities), pay to park at work, and pay to park at various locations/events.
Toll Routes
If your commute or travels will include using a toll route/road, then you need to be prepared to drop money in and pay for your use.
Going in Prepared Eliminates Surprises
The idea is that by going into the purchase prepared, you’ll be eliminating any chance of a surprise expense down the road.
