Drivers can be on the lookout for ways to save money using the simple power of one of their senses.
Using your trusty old ears and listening out for problems with regular checks could help people avoid mounting costs of £1,700.
Vehicle management experts Wessex Fleet have offered their tips on what people should be trying to hear when checking their car.
Saving a few extra quid here and there is important at the moment as the UK is suffering a tough time financially with the cost of living crisis.
Times are particularly difficult for drivers, with petrol prices reaching record highs in recent months, thanks to an already difficult situation made worse by the war in Ukraine.
So what should you be listening for?
What should I listen for when checking my car?
There are a number of things people should listen for when they're driving their car, such as groaning sounds and squeaking under the bonnet.
Wessex Fleet Director Simon Naylor, said: "The upkeep of any car can be expensive, whether you are leasing or it’s yours. It’s important you listen out for any concerning noises your vehicle may start to make. Getting any issue fixed sooner could save causing extra damage to the vehicle and keep the repair bill lower.”
Groaning when turning
Being low on power steering fluid may mean there is a groaning sound coming when turning your steering wheel. Topping this up should only cost you around £15 at most, but a flush and replacement will set you back around £115.
Ignoring it could mean a cost of £300 further down the line.
Squeaking under the bonnet
A high-pitched squeaking noise could be a sign of a faulty water pump. This is a problem likely to cost you £280 to replace, but not replacing it could mean there are more serious and more expensive engine faults down the line.
Screeching wheels
If you hear your wheels screeching when you brake, then this is an indication your brake pads are wearing down.
Brake pads usually last around 50,000 miles and may set you back £250.
Wessex Fleet explained: "The noise comes from your brake pads thanks to the indicators fitted by most manufacturers – alerting drivers that their pads are wearing down."
Rattling exhaust
Rattling exhausts tend to indicate a problem with the exhaust bracket, this can be manually tightened if found to be loose.
To check, make sure the car has cooled before giving the exhaust a gentle shake.
More serious bracket issues may cost £125.
Clicking sounds
A clicking sound when turning could be a sign of an issue with a constant velocity joint. This usually affects the front wheels and they can be subjected to dirt and moisture when damaged.
Wessex Fleet added: "If you discover this issue early, it could be repaired, but the cost of a full replacement can be around £200. A broken CV joint may also cause shaking when going round corners so watch out for this too."
Clunking when driving
If your car makes a clunking sound when going over bumps, then this may be a sign there is a problem with the anti-roll bar.
Wessex Fleet advised: "Anti-roll bars and installation costs around £210. If you can replace just the links, you will save around £20 but it’s usually easier to do a full replacement."
Tyres rumbling
A rumbling sound coming from your tyre may indicate a tyre issue or wheel bearing issue, which may cost £200.
To avoid tyre wear, try to avoid curbing your car as often as possible and check regularly for signs of wear and tear, as well as bulges or punctures.
Squealing engine
A faulty alternator belt or drive belt may cause a squealing sound from the engine.
Wessex Fleet said: "The belt transfers power from the engine to other parts of your vehicle including the alternator, air con, steering and others. The belt will wear down from friction and heat from the engine, causing visible damage."
Replacing a worn belt or one that has snapped completely may cost £150.
