Owning a vehicle in the country could be quite expensive. It is especially after the important repairs you must prepare for in winter. It is a tough time for commuters. Individuals face the most issues with car engines during this period. Tyres face the most wear and tear due to icy lanes.  Neglecting such important car repairs may prove costly later. Maintenance proves challenging for individuals with limited income.

Moreover, fuel prices increased this year due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, tyre costs are rising significantly. However, understanding the best ways to utilise the existing one well may help. You don’t always need to replace the tyres.

Similarly, you don’t always need to replace the car wipers. Instead, you can set them right without expert assistance. Just clean them up and check their functioning.

You can find multiple ways to repair the car without spending much. The blog lists the aspects that might help you if you struggle to pay for vehicle maintenance and repairs.

What is the average cost of car repairs in the UK?

According to a survey by TheExpress, “the average cost of car repair in the UK is £803.” However, the actual costs may vary according to the car model, repair requirements, replacements needed and the company’s policies.  It is better to consider a free car inspection to know the approximate costs. It will help you analyse the requirements and budget accordingly. Some companies like Kwikfit, Halfords and AA provide it. They inspect the car’s battery, tyre, catalytic converter check, and signs of wear and tear and leaks.

How to explore the possibilities of DIY car repairs at low income?

Yes, it is the first thing you must consider before calling in the experts. It will help you save money and do some repairs yourself. Some basic improvements do not require expert requirements. You can do it all alone. Here are some DIY car repairs to try:

• Replacing wiper blades

It is important to replace the wiper blades after using the same for a year or two. It does not involve any technicality or more tools. Instead, you can replace wiper blades easily.

2) Check the tyre and belt condition

Understand the tyre pressure, tread depth and overall vehicle condition.  Additionally, check the belts for wear and tear signs. Replace them if necessary. Otherwise, it may impact the car’s driving performance. According to Checkatrade statistics, “It may cost £220-£1200/tyre to replace high-end tyres”.

Thus, if you hold sports or a car with diverse specifications, replacing every tyre may prove costly. However, you cannot compromise with the performance. It may prove life-threatening.  Identify how much you can invest from your savings. Next, check the best ways to fund the rest, given the affordability.

Individuals with low incomes generally have pending debts, which leads to a drop in credit scores. Don’t worry; you may still finance the car tyre replacement. Explore extremely bad credit loans in the UK marketplace. You can get one at lower interest rates than usual financial facilities. Borrow or bridge only the required amount to avoid additional interest. It will help you prevent the car from further damage.

3) Check and re-fill the fluids required

Your car engine requires proper lubrication to work well in winter. Check the replenishing engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid. It will help you ensure optimal vehicle performance.

4) Change the cabin air filter

You may spot the cabin air filter behind the glove apartment or the dashboard. Remove the existing housing cover and the old air filter. Next, insert a new air filter by positioning it correctly. Lastly, the housing cover must be re-attached, and the air conditioning system must be tested.

5) Fix the flat tyre

It is also the easiest part of repairing the car DIY. To do this, you need to park the car correctly and use the parking brake. Next, let loose the lug nuts and lift the car with the help of a jack. Check and remove the flat tyre. Install the new spare tyre and fix the nuts. Lower the vehicle by removing the jack. Lastly, check the security by assuring that the nuts have been fixed tightly.

What else can you do to save money on car repairs?

Yes, you can do a lot, apart from saving money on DIY car repairs. For example- check your car insurance policy. Understand the repairs that the company covers. You can use the opportunity to save on these repairs. Here are other aspects to check and save money on expensive car repairs:

1. Check the warranty repair card

Every car part has a validity and repair timeline. Qualified car repair companies and mechanics provide one after the repairs. Review the last receipts and warranty cards that you received. Check whether the car is still under warranty.

Some manufacturers provide warranties on new cars. What could be better than getting new parts without spending anything?  Alternatively, check dealers that cover used car repairs affordably. Always understand the repairs covered before approaching the company.

2. Take it to the garage

Sometimes, you struggle to understand whether you must repair the car. It is wise to consult a car garage holder. These experts may analyse the car’s health and suggest accordingly. You can even negotiate the price on some important repairs. It is possible if you often drive to that garage for repairs. Repair the most important aspects required to drive the car safely.

Next, check whether the garage provides a payment plan. Yes, most leading ones help the customer spread the payments. It helps you afford other minor repairs by spreading the costs. It eases up the financial liabilities. You can consider other aspects well.

3. Finance repairs through introductory credit card

An introductory credit card helps you save money on interest. You don’t pay for any specific time with such a credit card. Why don’t you use it to finance your car repairs? It would be more affordable than a usual credit card. However, it is ideal only for the known car issues and repairs. Avoid the option if you encounter any urgent repair needs. It may prove costly then as you don’t know how much it will cost.

Thus, switch to a quick cash loan instead. You get only what may help you meet the requirements. The experts help you choose a flexible amount to finance the repairs. So, you know the amount you must pay after the loan term ends. It eliminates any surprises down the lane. Moreover, it is cheaper than credit cards or even introductory credit options.

4. Consider high-quality used parts

Yes, you can consider some used vehicle parts to save some money on repairs. Always get the expert’s assistance to understand the parts you can use. This is especially possible with branded car parts. For example- you can use the previous bumpers, headlights, or wing mirrors. Similarly, used body panels are also helpful. However, avoid using used airbags, rotors, or brake pads. It may hamper the car’s safety.

Bottom line

Thus, repairing a car does not always have to be costly. Understand your affordability, car repair and replacement requirements. Check the condition of the used car parts. Analyse which of these you can reuse to save some money. Additionally, analyse your insurance policy and repair coverage. It will help you eliminate paying anything for repairs. You can also check for the DIY aspects that you can treat without expert assistance.

• Country: United Kingdom