With a teenager about to get behind the steering wheel, I was inspired to research information on new teen drivers. I found out a lot about safety and costs, including getting great car insurance tips online. In the process, I managed to garner some fantastic information on how to save cash no matter what your age may be.

I have divided the cost savings into four categories: insurance, fuel, maintenance and repair. Below are frugal practices that will definitely save you cash at the gas pump, on insurance and in other areas. 

Cut Car Insurance Bills

If you’re interested in being frugal when it comes to car insurance, there are a few things that you can do. First, take some time to get a range of car insurance quotes online. Even of you already have an agent with which you work, it does not hurt to shop around. Also, take some time to go through your present policy and make sure you are covered in the manner in which you need to be. Too many drivers blindly purchase their car insurance without checking out costs and coverage. By the way, the Internet is also a great place to find free health insurance quotes. Use it.

Frugal Fuel Practices

There are many ways to cut down on gas and save money on fuel. Here are a few that work for me.

• I’ve started to walk more. The fact is there are places that I drive to that I can simply walk to, saving money on gas and getting in some extra exercise.
• My car runs on regular. What about yours? Use regular unless otherwise instructed by your owner’s manual.
• Keep your tires properly inflated to maintain fuel efficiency. Under inflated tires can cut down on gas mileage.
• Try to use your car’s vents to cool the interior when driving at high speeds, eschewing air conditioning and keeping windows closed. These practices will increase fuel efficiency when driving at high speeds.
• Don’t let your engine idle for more than 45 seconds. If you’re sitting without moving for longer than 45 seconds, shut off the engine until it’s time to move.

Next time you’re at the drive through and they’ve told you it will be a minute, then shut off the car for that minute or two and you’ll save money. Remember, when your car is sitting and idling, you’re burning gas that you can use to actually get somewhere.

Smart Maintenance is Essential

Frugal drivers know how to save money on maintenance. I've put together five useful tips. 

• If you can change the air filter, lamps, tail lights and perform other basic maintenance duties yourself, then do so. You'll save money.
• Scheduled maintenance should be performed in a timely manner.
• Tire rotation can result in better fuel mileage and longer tire life.
• Before purchasing tires always check for sales. There are a lot of deals out there.
• One of the most important maintenance procedures is the basic oil change. Have it done on time and as often as recommended.

Repairs and Research

A little bit of research can go a long way in saving you money when it comes to repairs.

• If you want to save money, then purchase a car that has a good record when it comes to cost and repairs.
• Adhere to the vehicle’s maintenance calendar, which you’ll find in the owner’s manual.
• Educate yourself on car repair. You want to be a smart consumer when it comes to getting your car fixed properly.
• Find a repair shop that you trust. Get recommendations from people you know.
• Shop around before you ever have to get something repaired. Find out how much various shops charge for new brakes, alignments and other procedures.

A smart car owner will save money. Be sure to educate yourself. You won’t regret it.

Do You Have Any Other Cost Saving Ideas?

If you have a cost saving practice, then please feel free to share it! Every little bit can really help. It’s your turn to share your frugal driving secrets. I can’t wait to hear from you.

About the Author

Melissa Cameron, who loves traveling along the Internet to find bargains, is a freelance writer. She lives in Austin Texas with her husband and two daughters. Writing on a various topics, including cooking, the outdoors and insurance, she is constantly learning to be a better and more frugal consumer. She loves the outdoors and recently travelled to Yosemite National Park and the Grand Canyon with her family.