How to Save On Auto Repairs | Frugal Fancy

By Dee | March 22, 2012

Enjoy this guest post from Sean Gray and visit his site to let him know you saw him on Frugal Fancy!

For most people, a car is a necessary but hefty expense. Between the price of gas, car insurance, car payments and repair fees, owning a vehicle can eat up an enormous chunk of your income. While you might not be able to help the cost of the first three, the amount of money you spend on fixing your car is something you actually have a lot of control over. Here is a handful of ways you can save money on buying auto parts.

Don?t Limit Your Options

When something breaks in a car, the dealership is typically where most people go first for a new part. However, this isn?t the smartest move. Dealerships sell car parts for a premium. In many cases, you can buy the exact same part at a local automotive store and pay as fraction of the price charged by the dealership.

Buy Refurbished

Despite the impression that most people have of refurbished products, they are usually as reliable as their newly manufactured counterparts. Much of the time, they even come with warranties, so your financial risk is minimized. What really makes refurbished parts a great deal is their price. You get a functional product that is just like the alternative, but for a big discount.

Shop Around

Like with most things, prices on auto parts aren?t the same everywhere, nor is any store?s selection. It?s a good idea to check with various auto part stores near you regarding the product you?re looking for. You should also search online for your part, as some of the best deals can be found on sites such as eBay, or Craigslist.

Buy Used

Buying used parts can save you a lot on auto repair costs. Many used parts are still in good working order and may actually be less likely to be defective. It is also a good way to recycle materials that could otherwise end up rusting away in a scrap heap. There are many good places to look for used car parts, including junk yards, garage sales, auctions and online classified ads.

Buy Generic

The manual that came with your vehicle recommends that you only use parts certified by your car?s brand. This can be a mistake, though. They want you to believe that their parts are somehow better so that you will give them more of your money. The truth is that generic auto parts are just as good as the ones endorsed by auto makers, but without the ridiculous price tag.

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Sean Gray has been in the automotive industry for over twenty years, and uses these techniques to cut the cost of auto repairs. If you?d like to learn more about Sean you can visit cashforcarssandiego.com.

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Source: http://frugalfancy.com/2012/how-to-save-on-auto-repairs/

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