Vehicle Maintanence Saves Money

New England’s snow, ice, salt and potholes have done a number on your automobile.

Save money and time by taking preventative measures that will limit your need for auto repairs as well as prepare your car for spring.

These five frugal tips along with five frugal service shop offers ensure your auto lasts longer.  These money saving maintenance deals will pay for themselves.

1. Tires: realign, rotate, check air pressure, or replace snow tires with summer tires. Make sure your spare is intact as well as your jack.
2. Windshield: Replace rubber or entire blade if bent from ice; refill windshield fluid (and stock an extra in your trunk); check for any dings or cracks in auto glass.  Prepare for more precipitation as spring may be as rainy as winter was snowy.
3. Exterior and Interior: Check underbody and entire vehicle for rust caused by all that highway salt; Wash rubber floor mats.  Vacuum carpets that have become soiled from boots, sand and salt.
4. Fluids, belts, hoses, air filters: Check oil, brake fluid and replace radiator coolants.
5. Brakes: Have these inspected by a professional as they have likely become worn from the salt, mud, sand and adverse driving conditions.

1.  Salem Car Wash

Deal: Special offer every month at this touch-free car wash specialist.  Substantial savings when you purchase an advance car wash card, a birthday club for free washes and more as well as online coupons for up to $6 off each wash here: Coupons and carwash

2.  Meineke

Deal: This easily accessible Route 1 Peabody oil change specialist offers many online coupons such as a basic $19.95 oil change and many other money and auto saving upgrades.  Military and Senior Citizen discount also available.

3.  USA Speedy Auto

ASE certified auto repair and maintenance technicians can ensure your car is in working order.  Specials include $10 off Wednesdays and FREE wiper blades every 3rd visit.  See online for more special offers.  Route 1 location is easy to find.

4.  Jiffy Lube

Specials from the quick, efficient oil change experts. A $5 off coupon to print online as well as location specials and Shell rebate affiliate programs.  Easily accessible Route 114 location.

5.  Turnpike Car Wash

This landmark Route 1 South car wash just before the Route 128/ I-95 ramp offers self service stations 24 hour per day, seven days per week and has been recently renovated. Sign up online for a preferred customer card and receive free birthday car washes, senior discounts, rain and snow guarantees and special email offers.

Good Through: See coupons and websites for expiration on various items as location and deals vary by each independent operator.