Smart savings without sacrificing safety: expert shares wallet-friendly car maintenance tips
Key Points:
- Car repair expert shares practical ways to save money on car repairs without compromising safety during challenging economic times
- Tips include learning basic maintenance, using quality second-hand parts, comparing quotes, and building relationships with trusted mechanics
- Expert warns that cutting corners on essential repairs often leads to bigger problems and higher costs down the road
With household budgets continuing to be squeezed in 2025, unexpected car repair bills have the potential to devastate finances. The average UK driver now spends almost £500 annually on car maintenance and repairs – a figure that has increased by nearly 32% since 2020. For many, putting off repairs might seem like the only option, but this approach often leads to more expensive problems later.
“Car owners are frequently forced to choose between paying high repair costs or risking their safety with temporary fixes,” says Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for used car parts. “But there are legitimate ways to reduce costs without cutting corners on quality.”
Urbonas has spent years ensuring quality and consistency across auto parts suppliers, giving him unique insight into where drivers can safely save money and where they shouldn’t compromise. Below, he shares his top money-saving strategies that don’t sacrifice vehicle safety or performance.
1. Learn Basic Maintenance
The simplest way to save on repair costs is to prevent problems before they happen. Learning to perform basic maintenance tasks yourself can save hundreds of pounds each year.
“Tasks like checking tyre pressure, topping up fluids, and changing air filters are straightforward but often overlooked,” Urbonas says. “These simple checks can prevent costly damage and extend your vehicle’s life.”
Basic maintenance that most car owners can handle includes:
- Changing windscreen wipers (£25-60 at a garage vs. £10-25 DIY)
- Replacing air filters (£30-60 at a garage vs. £8-20 DIY)
- Topping up fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid
- Checking and maintaining proper tyre pressure
- Changing a tyre in an emergency
2. Use Quality Second-Hand Parts
New original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts can be eye-wateringly expensive, but that doesn’t mean second-hand parts aren’t reliable alternatives.
“A professionally reclaimed part from a vehicle with low mileage can function just as well as a new one at a fraction of the cost,” Urbonas explains. “The key is knowing which parts are safe to buy used, and ensuring they come with guarantees.”
Parts that are typically safe to buy second-hand include:
- Body panels and bumpers
- Mirrors and lights
- Interior components
- Some mechanical components like alternators
However, always buy new for safety-critical components like:
- Brake pads and rotors
- Airbag systems
- Seat belts
- Timing belts
3. Get Multiple Quotes
One of the most effective yet underutilised strategies is simply shopping around. Different garages often charge vastly different rates for the same job.
“I recommend getting at least three quotes for any significant repair,” says Urbonas. “But make sure you’re comparing like-for-like services and parts quality.”
A 2023 survey found price differences of up to 65% between garages for identical repairs in the same city. This means a £300 repair at one garage could cost just £105 at another without any difference in quality.
4. Build A Relationship With A Trusted Mechanic
Finding a reliable mechanic and sticking with them can pay dividends over time.
“A mechanic who knows your vehicle history will often spot potential issues before they become serious problems,” Urbonas points out. “They’re also more likely to offer loyalty discounts or prioritise your repairs during busy periods.”
5. Consider Independent Garages Over Dealerships
Dealerships typically charge premium rates for servicing and repairs. Independent garages can offer the same quality of service at significantly lower prices.
“Dealerships often charge up to 60% more than independent garages for the same repairs,” Urbonas reveals. “And contrary to popular belief, using an independent garage doesn’t void your manufacturer’s warranty as long as they use appropriate parts and follow the manufacturer’s service schedule.”
6. Don’t Ignore Warning Lights
It might seem counterintuitive in an article about saving money, but addressing problems when they first appear almost always costs less than waiting until a complete breakdown occurs.
“That check engine light might seem like an annoyance you can ignore, but it could be signalling a simple issue that costs £50 to fix now or £500 if left unaddressed,” warns Urbonas.
7. Learn To Diagnose Basic Problems
Even if you’re not comfortable making repairs yourself, learning to diagnose common issues can prevent you from being overcharged.
“Odd noises, vibrations, or handling issues all provide clues about what might be wrong,” says Urbonas. “A basic understanding helps you communicate more effectively with mechanics and evaluate whether quoted repairs are actually necessary.”
Inexpensive OBD-II scanners that connect to your smartphone can read error codes from your vehicle’s computer system, giving you valuable information before you even speak to a mechanic.
8. Take Advantage Of Seasonal Maintenance Offers
Many garages offer discounted services during slower periods.
“Winter health checks in autumn or air conditioning services in early spring are often provided at reduced rates to keep technicians busy during quieter times,” Urbonas explains. “These promotional services can catch developing issues before they become serious.”
Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, commented:
“The most expensive repair is always the one you could have prevented with proper maintenance. While it’s natural to look for savings, especially in today’s economic climate, cutting corners on essential repairs inevitably leads to bigger problems and higher costs down the road.
“The sweet spot is knowing where you can safely economise and where you should invest in quality. Using reclaimed parts from reputable suppliers, performing DIY maintenance where appropriate, and building relationships with trustworthy independent garages can all dramatically reduce your annual vehicle expenses without compromising safety or reliability.
“Remember that preventative maintenance is always cheaper than emergency repairs. A small investment in regular checks and timely minor repairs will save you thousands over your vehicle’s lifetime.”
