The motorists’ guide to beating the downturn
For more than two million unemployed people in the UK, driving a car is costlier than ever.
We reveal the money-saving secrets to make buying, selling and owning a car easier – even if you’ve been made redundant.
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Here are some thrifty ideas to keep you on the road throughout the recession…
1. Downsize your car
Downsizing to a cheaper car doesn’t have to mean missing out space, style and performance.
Look for a car with decent fuel economy (above a combined 50mpg), low tax band (£120 D or less) and low insurance group (group 4 or below) to save hundreds of pounds per year.
2. Take the used route
Beat depreciation by buying a used car – these will already have lost some of their value from new, making them ideal money-savers.
View our car buying slide show:
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3. Buy online
If you’re buying new, compare prices online to find the best deal. These are often much cheaper than dealer list prices, saving you money.
4. Consider pre-reg cars
Keep an eye open for pre-registered cars, which are legally registered by the dealer, making them the first owner. Select ‘Pre-registered cars only’ on the Auto Trader search to do this.
Pre-reg cars usually cost up to a thousand pounds less than a brand new car and will likely have delivery miles on the clock.
5. Learn to haggle
Save hundreds of pounds on the price of your next used car by haggling. Find out the basics with these essential tips from ex-Top Gear presenter Jason Dawe:
1. Take advantage of Auto Trader’s sale
Sell your car online for two weeks for just £19.99. Alternatively you can advertise online and in the magazine for three weeks for £29.99.
2. Wash your car before selling
Increase your car’s value by hundreds of pounds with a quick wash before selling.
Read our essential car washing tips
3. Sell at the right time
Certain cars could have a higher resale value depending on the time of year they’re sold. For example soft-top convertibles such as the Mazda MX-5 and Audi TT are more sought after in summer months.
4. Get a valuation
Car price guides are a good indication of how much your car is worth, helping you value it correctly and sell first time.
Get an expert valuation from Glass’s for £3.50
5. Take the perfect snap
Adverts with great pictures get a better response from buyers. Clean your car and take up to nine images – make sure you get a three-quarters angled shot of the car and a few interior pictures at least.
1. Limit your journeys
Ask yourself if driving is entirely necessary before setting off. You could ride a bike for short journeys or use public transport as a longer-distance alternative.
2. Save money on fuel
Save thousands of pounds by driving green and make your fuel go further. It’s as simple as parking correctly and changing gear efficiently.
3. Cut your car tax costs
With 2009’s new road tax prices increasing by £5 per band, it pays to get an annual tax disc rather than every six months to save up to £40.
Drive a car which emits less than 120g/km of CO2 and it’ll only cost you £35 per year to tax. What’s more, cars registered before January 1, 1973 won’t cost a penny in tax.
More ways to save money on car tax
4. Search around for the best insurance prices
The easiest way to cut your insurance premium is to find the cheapest price from as many insurers as possible. Shop around and compare prices first.
Compare 300+ prices in less than four minutes
5. Keep your car in check
A healthy car is a reliable one. Check your car’s tyre pressure and the oil, water and screen wash levels regularly to avoid unnecessary problems.
Make sure you get your car serviced at least once a year and get it checked out if you notice a problem. You can also try repairing the car yourself to avoid expensive repair bills.
Please note: car maintenance can be dangerous. If unsure always seek a professional to help.
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