Get your car to commit
Car price hikes and recessionary trends means it’s no longer financially viable to have a four-wheeler fling. Instead we are looking for a long-term relationship with a rewarding motoring mate. Here’s how to make yours work better (and cheaper) for longer:
1. Stick to safe bets
Choosing a car (or a companion) for the long haul calls for a conservative, better-safe-than-sorry approach. Why? Because an unreliable option could leave you in the lurch. A number of Chinese brands (such as Geely and Meiya) have come and gone, potentially leaving motorists stranded if they can’t get parts or vehicle service. Despite the apparent value tor money in an exotic or upstart brand, we’d suggest sticking to the tried-and tested options instead. A Volkswagen or Toyota may cost more, but there’s very little chance that either company will pull out of SA.
2. Do an opinion poll
Sleuth around to find out if past and current drivers of your fancied car are really hooked on its qualities. Friends’ opinions count, as do customer-satisfaction stats, like the Power & Associates/CAR Magazine 2008 South Africa Customer Satisfaction index (CSI).This comprehensive study measures quality and reliability; vehicle appeal (performance, design, comfort, styling and features); cost of ownership (expenses of fuel consumption, insurance and service or repair); and dealership service satisfaction.
Last year Lexus took the CSi crown, followed by Honda, Volvo, Mercedes—Benz and Subaru. Jaguar is also a real people pleaser. This brand rules the customer-satisfaction roost in the extremely critical US market.
3. Build in a backup plan
Some cars come with a service plan included in the initial purchase price, some with a maintenance plan and some with no plan at all. If your new car doesnt come with a plan, invest in one. Although it calls for an initial outlay, a maintenance plan is the best longterm investment, because it covers all your service and maintenance costs (although there are always exclusions, like tyres). A service plan will cover standard service items, but if you’re planning to keep your car for a long period, it’s better to be prepared for more repairs. Tip: consider upping a two-year maintenance plan to five years of cover.
4. Consider fuel consumption
Fuel makes up about 50% of your running costs (excluding insurance), so don’t forget to factor in this expense before you buy. Do you really need that big gas guzzling tank when a little runabout will do the job just fine?
5. Bag a preowned bargain
Used cars represent sensational value for money. Plus, these days, they’re easier to finance. The National Credit Act is working to the benefit of the used-car industry,’ says Andre Dalais, finance and operations director of Burchmore’s Car Auctions in Cape Town.
‘It’s far easier to get financing for a used car than for a new one because the value of the asset relative to the loan is a good proposition for the bank – it has a “cushion”.’ When shopping for a pre-owned car, skip the dealers and buy from a private seller, or else bid against the dealers at an auction.
But remember that used cars are always sold voetstoots, so invest in a warranty (which must be applicable from day one). And, when buying a used car, always take a technical expert along (men are often good at this stuff) and inspect the car’s paperwork, including the service record.When buying privately, pay for the Automobile Association (AA) to do a test or contact AA Autobay for help with every step of the pre-owned buying process.
6. Read the self-help book
As always, when in doubt, read the instructions! The owner’s manual may look boring (it is) and tedious (ditto), but to keep everything shipshape for longer, you really need to familiarise yourself with the specifics of your car. Make sure you understand the servicing requirements (check the service book), fuel and oil requirements, and tyre pressure. Also, study the warning lights and what they mean. And if they come on, don’t ignore them.
7. Ditch the dirt
For small savings that really add up, roll up your sleeves and wash your car yourself. A car wash can easily cost up to R100. Put that money in your pocket instead. Plus, if you’ve laboured and lathered the car yourself, you’re more likely to keep it neat and clean.
8. Advance your driving
Women are better drivers than men. This is a fact. But why not get even better? Enrol for an advanced driving-skills course or find out whether your dealer offers one. It’s good news not only for road safety but also for longterm saving: avoiding accidents will spare you costly repairs and help preserve your no-claims bonus.
9. Take charge of services
Relationships thrive if you take the time to nip little niggles in the bud. In car-speak, this means sticking to the regular services that stop small problems from blossoming into big ones. So don’t be fooled. Skipping services won’t save money in the long run. If your car is under warranty, you’ll need to go to a franchised dealer.
But you may want to stick with them even after the warranty expires. Almost all cars built since the early 1980s have sophisticated computer control systems designed to increase the engine’s efficiency, reduce emissions and help with engine troubleshooting. According to the AA, you may be taking a substantial risk by having it repaired by an independent dealer if he doesn’t have the proper equipment or expertise to diagnose your car’s problem correctly.
10. Drive less
Okay, it might sound nuts. You’ve saved and finally bought your dream wheels, and now we’re asking you to leave it in the garage. But this really is one of the best ways to curb your motoring costs. Hitch a ride to work with a colleague and use your car more frugally for missions. Instead of going to the corner shop, put on your trainers and jog there. Over time, you’ll save on fuel and wear-and-tear costs, but you’ll burn more kilojoules as a bodyboosting bonus!