Working from home can save you tons of money over time. You’ll spend less on lunches or going out after work. And you won’t have to shell out for suits or dry cleaning either. One of the biggest cost savings you’ll experience, though, is with your vehicle.
How You Save Money by Eliminating the Daily Commute
Even if you work remotely only half of the week, you will significantly reduce the amount of wear and tear on your car, particularly if you have a long commute. You will save on routine maintenance that’s based on mileage, like oil changes. Your tires will last longer, and you won’t need to top off fluids as often.
You’d be surprised how much regular driving reduces your car’s lifespan. Everything from the air conditioning system to the window controls will last longer when you drive less.
Of course, there is no gas to buy and no tolls to pay when you work from home. You also won’t be swinging by the car wash as often, which can add up if you get your vehicle detailed frequently.
Indirect Savings When You Skip the Commute
Indirectly, you may even save money over the long term with your health, as stressful commutes contribute to high blood pressure, headaches, body pain, and even ulcers. With the time you save by not driving, you may be able to accomplish other tasks that you previously outsourced, like dog walking, laundry, cooking, or time with loved ones.
Tips for Keeping Your Car Running Optimally
If you’re not going to be driving your car often, you still need to make sure it runs when you need it to. Sitting for a long time can drain the battery, meaning it won’t start when you try to turn the engine over. Modern cars have a lot of elements that are electrical system vampires, even when the car is not running.
Your tires can also become deflated when your car sits in the driveway or garage for too long. Therefore, you'll want to be sure to start up your vehicle and take it for a spin at least once a week if you’re not driving to work every day. Some maintenance is time-dependent, so even if you haven’t put in high mileage, you still need to get it done. Check with your mechanic or dealership to get a calendar of when your car needs to be serviced.
Check with Your Insurance Agent About Savings
Lastly, make sure you are getting the best rates for your auto insurance. Driving less may mean that you require difference coverage options. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs.