The Cost Of: The wear and tear of winter on your car
Preventative maintenance is crucial in keeping your car on the road and money in your pocket.
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While there are plenty of miles left in winter, you won’t be able to say the same for your car if you don’t prepare early. The wear and tear of the season can add up quickly, so Marshal Cohen, chief retail analyst at Circana, says now is the time to vet your vehicles.
“Batteries, after three years to five years, don't go much better than that. A battery could cost between $100 to $160 to replace,” said Cohen.
Beyond your battery, it is crucial that you check the tread on your tires. According to Cohen, the penny trick is an easy way to know if it is time for new ones.
“Use a penny, stick it into the tread and if you can see Lincoln's head disappear, that tread is good. If it doesn't disappear, you need new tires.”
Cohen says an average tire runs between $150 to $200, but you do not need to replace them every year.
When it comes to your car, the key to savings is knowledge. While Cohen recommends you have a trustworthy auto shop on standby, he says you don’t always need to depend on them for simple fixes.
“Antifreeze runs at about $18. If you have an auto shop, do it. [It’s] $12 if you do it yourself.”
Similarly, Cohen says washer fluid can run you $20 at the shop but only $5 if you do it at home.
Preventative maintenance is crucial in keeping your car on the road and money in your pocket.
