How to reduce your car expenses

TRY DIY FOR THE SMALL STUFF. For almost any minor bit of repair or maintenance, there’s at least one video on YouTube that can guide you through the process step-by-step — and help you save

big. The website RepairPal, for instance, estimates that a Cleveland-area shop will charge around $80 to change the engine air filter on a Toyota Camry. A replacement filter you can install

yourself will run you $15, if you’re willing to get your hands dirty. ESTABLISH A RAPPORT WITH YOUR REPAIR SHOP. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a good way to find a reputable mechanic,

Preston says. “To establish a rapport, start with something simple, like an oil change,” he says. “If you like the mechanic and feel that this person gives trustworthy advice — including

telling you which services aren’t worth your money — keep going back.” Once you’ve got a relationship, it doesn’t hurt to drop off some goodies — bagels, brownies or holiday cookies — for

the shop’s workers. Letting them know you’re thinking of them and want to give them a treat goes a long way. Not sure whether to work with an independent repair shop or a dealer? “Generally,

labor tends to be less expensive at an independent repair shop,” Preston says. Independent shops are also more likely to offer repairs using parts made by third parties, which tend to cost

less than the car manufacturer’s replacement parts, he says. BUYING A CAR ESTIMATE THE FULL COSTS. Online driving cost calculators let you input your state, the year, make, model and mileage

you expect to drive after a potential new or used car purchase, and provide an estimate of the annual costs for gas (important for cars that require premium fuel), maintenance, insurance

and financing. A recent check of new midsize sedans from two different manufacturers found that even though one car cost $5,000 more than the other, its five-year ownership cost was less,

thanks to better gas mileage and lower repair costs, insurance premiums and depreciation expense. SHOP FOR YOUR LOAN FIRST. Get preapproved for financing before you’re ready to get a new

vehicle, Bennett advises. “If you’re preapproved from a bank at an interest rate of 7 percent and you ask the dealership if it can beat that, you might end up with 6 percent, which can save

you hundreds of dollars over the term of the loan,” he says. Check out dealers’ financing deals. Keep an eye out for financing deals advertised for particular models at certain times — for

example, when the next year’s models are hitting showrooms. Again, get preapproved from your bank or credit union. “The best financing deals go to those with the best credit,” Preston says.