As January comes to a close, people will have set themselves targets to try and save money for the year ahead, with your car being high on the list of where you can cut costs.
It is a very useful thing to have, but a car can be extremely expensive when you factor in the likes of road tax, keeping it clean, insurance and of course fuel.
But now, experts at Chill Insurance have come up with four easy ways to help bring your car costs down.
Reduce risk
A Chill Insurance spokesperson explains: "Before insurance companies offer deals, they calculate how likely they think you are to make a claim. With this in mind, one way to keep your premiums down is to make your vehicle more secure.
"This can be done in a number of ways such as having private or secure parking overnight, driving less, or fitting alarms and trackers to your vehicle."
Choose your car carefully
The spokesperson continues: "The value, model and engine size of your vehicle will all have an impact on your premiums. As a general rule, cheaper, less powerful cars attract lower premiums.
"Older cars may affect the cost of your premium as they are more likely to break down and less likely to be fitted with security features found in more modern cars such as an alarm or immobiliser."
Pay close attention to policy options
Many people may be confused when trying to renew their insurance - with a wide array of policy options available.
But the experts say to make sure you get what you really need and not to be drawn in by any 'additional' perks.
The spokesperson adds: "You may already have breakdown cover through your bank, meaning there’s no point in paying extra for this feature as part of your vehicle policy."
The way you pay
It may seem easier to go month-by-month on your policy, but be warned.
"In the long run, you will most likely end up paying more due to interest. Another handy tip is opting to pay a voluntary excess fee in the event of a claim. By raising your voluntary excess, you may be able to bring your cover costs down."
To read the full advice from Chill, click here.
Motoring experts have warned that insurance policies could be invalidated if drivers have an accident within 15 minutes of receiving their booster vaccination.
Duncan McClure Fisher from MotorEasy told Wales Online : “The official advice is to still wait 15 minutes after having the booster jab before driving.
