Five Common Ways to Waste Money on a Car, and How to Avoid Them

The biggest avoidable car costs are usually paying for the steepest early depreciation, skipping servicing, ignoring small faults like tracking, paying more than you need to for routine work, and handing back a finance or lease car with damage. Each one has a simple fix.

Is buying brand new a waste of money?

Not always, but new cars usually lose value fastest in their first few years. Buying a car that is a few years old means the first owner has absorbed most of that drop, while you still get modern safety kit and technology. Our guide to the best age to buy a used car explains the trade-offs.

Is it worth skipping a service to save money?

Usually not. Fresh oil protects parts such as turbochargers and timing chains, and a service is a chance to catch wear before it becomes a bigger repair. A complete service history also makes a car easier to sell and can support a better price. See our guide on what service history is worth.

Can bad wheel alignment really cost me money?

Yes. If the car pulls or the steering wheel sits off-centre, the tyres may be wearing unevenly on one edge. Left alone, that can mean replacing a pair of tyres long before their time. An alignment check is a small job by comparison. Our guide to pothole damage covers the warning signs.

Do I have to use a main dealer to keep my warranty?

No. You can have your car serviced by an independent garage during the manufacturer's warranty, as long as the work follows the manufacturer's schedule and uses parts and fluids of matching quality. Keep the paperwork. Our guide on independent servicing and warranties explains the detail. It is worth comparing quotes for the same work.

How do I avoid damage charges when handing back a PCP or lease car?

Finance and lease companies can charge for damage beyond fair wear and tear, such as kerbed alloys, dents and stained seats. To avoid surprises:

1. Read the return standards in your agreement a couple of months before the end.

2. Inspect the car in daylight and photograph every panel and wheel.

3. Get quotes for any repairs that fall outside fair wear and tear, and compare them with what you might be charged.

4. Make sure servicing is up to date, as missing services can also be charged for.

Our guide to your options when a PCP or lease ends explains the choices you have.

Common questions

What is the single biggest cost of owning a car?

For many cars it is depreciation, the value lost while you own it. Fuel and insurance usually come next.

Does a full service history really add value?

It usually makes a car easier to sell and gives buyers more confidence. Gaps in the history tend to lead to lower offers.

How can I cut my running costs without changing car?

Check tyre pressures, shop around at insurance renewal and drive smoothly. Our guide to quick ways to cut car costs has more ideas.

Want to keep your car costs down in Barnsley?

Our service centre in Barnsley, South Yorkshire services cars to the manufacturer's schedule. Our labour rate is £80 per hour plus VAT, and our menu prices include VAT. Call Customer Care on 01226 574321. If it is time to change, browse the cars in stock at anycolourcar.com or call Sales on 01226 574410.

This guide is general information, not financial advice. Updated October 2026.