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Top 10 Most Frequent Auto Repairs

Every car owner dreads it. The call from your mechanic telling you that your regularly scheduled tune-up has uncovered a major repair problem--and it's going to cost you. Aside from your car payment, your monthly insurance premium may be your second-largest car-related expense According to MotorService, an auto industry trade magazine, the most frequent auto repairs include:

1.) Brake system
2.) Lube/oil change/filters
3.) Cooling/heating (radiator)
4.) Ignition/electronic control
5.) Steering/suspension
6.) Carburetor/fuel system
7.) Electrical
8.) Transmission/clutch/rear axle
9.) Auto air conditioning
10.) Exhaust system

In addition to auto repair services, there are many other costs associated with owning a car, including car payments, commuting expenses (e.g. gas, tolls, parking), and insurance premiums. Here are some tips that can help car owners save money.

Keep your repair costs in check
One of the most important things you can do to avoid costly auto repairs is preventive maintenance. Regularly scheduled trips to your mechanic can save you money in the long run. Either follow your car manufacturer's maintenance schedule, or ask your repair shop if they have their own schedule.

When bringing your car in for repairs, be sure to ask for a written estimate ahead of time. You'll also want to make sure that the repair shop will get your approval to perform any work that exceeds a certain amount.

Lower your commuting expenses
Many car owners overlook the cost of commuting when determining their monthly car expenses. In addition to gas and toll charges, you may need to factor in fees to park your car. Car pooling, either with coworkers or through a car pooling service, and taking advantage of public transportation (e.g. train, bus) in your area can greatly reduce your commuting expenses.

Lower your insurance premiums
Aside from your car payment, your monthly insurance premium may be your second-largest car-related expense. If you're looking to save money on your premiums, follow these simple steps:

• Shop around--in most states, premiums vary widely from company to company, so it often pays to compare policies
• Increase your deductible--typically, increasing your deductible will result in a lower premium
• If you drive an older car, consider dropping collision and/or other-than-collision (also known as comprehensive) coverage
• Take advantage of discounts--ask your insurer what types of discounts they offer (e.g. low mileage, antitheft devices, air bags, antilock brakes, safe driver)