“6 Winter Car Maintenance Tips to Save You Money” plus 1 more

6 Winter Car Maintenance Tips to Save You Money

Posted: 17 Nov 2011 04:00 AM PST

Winter is coming. In some places, the snow has already fallen. Before you get too far into winter, make sure that you are ready to go with some basic car maintenance tips that can save you time and money as the season turns colder:

1. Get the Right Winter Tires

Depending on where you are, and how much you will be driving in the snow, different types of tires are likely to be desirable. Consider your needs, and get the right tires for the job. Consider that all-season tires might not be as effective in some climates as tires meant for snow. Getting the right tires can help you avoid slipping off the road, and prevent expensive tow bills.

2. Tire Pressure

If your tires aren’t properly inflated, they won’t do as well in winter driving conditions. It’s important to check, too, because the cold weather will compress the air to a certain extent, making it flatter. Make sure you keep your tires properly inflated so that you don’t run into trouble.

3. Mind Your Windshield Wipers

Realize that windshield wipers only last about a year. Make a point to get new wipers every year, just before winter. If you choose the “beam blade”they will be less likely to freeze up. Pop your blades when you are worried about freezing rain or snow. That way, they won’t freeze to your windshield, and your motor will last longer — and save you more.

4. Check Your Battery

You can load-test your battery fairly inexpensively, and it can save you heartache down the road. Find out where your batter is at, and if it needs to be changed, comparison shop for the best deal. In many cases, if you can change your battery yourself (and I’ve done this, so you probably can, too), you will save a great deal, since batteries aren’t terribly expensive. No need to pay for the labor at a mechanic shop.

5. Double Check Your Antifreeze/Coolant

Before winter hits, check your antifreeze/coolant. Top it off before you see the warning light. Check your owner’s manual to determine whether or not you are due for a flush. If you do need a flush, have it done. Make sure that you have the right product for your car, as well as for the conditions. This is especially important if you have just made the move to a colder climate. You might need to upgrade your antifreeze/coolant to be able to handle the frigid conditions.

6. Oil and Other Fluids

Finally, make sure you have the right oil for your car. Some types of oil don’t perform as well in the cold. Make sure that your oil is up to snuff for your area, and be sure to change it if necessary. You can also check your other fluid levels while you’re under the hood. Washer fluid is a helpful thing to have in some winter driving situations. When your fluid levels are appropriate, and you have the right types in your car, it will run better, and will be less susceptible to problems that can cost you money down the road.

Dollar Matters: Money Mistakes

Posted: 16 Nov 2011 11:29 AM PST

We all make money mistakes. Some are big, and some are small. Here are some examples of money mistakes to avoid — and how you can fix the mistakes you do make:

4 Risky Money Mistakes to Avoid

Over at the Quizzle Blog, Benjamin shares some of the riskiest money mistakes you can make — and discusses how to avoid them.

5 Property Investment Mistakes

Whitney at Real Estate Pro Articles points out that there are some property investment mistakes that you can make that might impact your success. Watch out for these 5 missteps.

Stay The Course With Your Investments

Don’t make the mistake of panicking and throwing out your investment plan. Instead, follow Boomer’s advice and stick with your investments. But, don’t be afraid to sell if you have to. Just make sure you really have to sell, first.

Most Stock Investors Are Gambling with Their Retirement Money

Before you make another retirement mistake, consider Rob Bennett’s lastest post at Out OF Your Rut. Make sure you aren’t gambling in the stock market with your retirement money.

Review: Debt Plans Summary Calculator

Have you made money mistakes and ended up in debt as a result? If so, you can make a plan to move on with the help of the Debt Plans Summary Calculator. I review this tool offered by the Get Out of Debt Guy.

Learning Contentment Before Achieving Self-Employment

Don’t make the mistake of leaving your day job too early. John at Bible Money Matters offers some insight into the steps you should take before you decide to become self-employed. And, don’t make the mistake of thinking that something else will be better. Be content with your current position first.

5 Reasons You Should Never Buy a Video Game at Launch

Before you spend your hard earned cash on the latest video game release, think twice. Alan at Canadian Finance Blog takes a look at why it’s probably a mistake to buy a video game at launch.

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