Once a year, people take their car for a service where it is checked to see if every part is in the best condition it can be.
But depending on the car and how it has been used, services can vary from quick and cheap to lengthy and expensive.
Express.co.uk has been speaking to a car expert to find out the best make and model to buy to avoid a nasty bill when your car goes in for a service – something even more crucial during a cost of living crisis where every penny counts.
Cuvva’s Darryl Bowman had a few recommendations for the best car to buy, for the sake of the service and your bank account.
He suggested: “The reliable Vauxhall Corsa is a firm favourite for those who want to keep costs down. It helps that the Corsa is known for its safety features and suitability as a family car, too.”
However, if a Vauxhall isn’t to your taste, there are rivals from Japan and Czechia (Czech Republic).
Mr Bowman explained: “As well as being both affordable and easy to insure, the Toyota Aygo is also easy to drive and can fit into small spaces. Plus they tend to share engines with other makes and models, so replacement parts are more readily available if anything goes wrong.”
He added: “Although it’s not the most stylish of the bunch, the Skoda Fabia is one of the more affordable small cars around, and has handy features such as auto emergency braking. It’s particularly great for city driving.”
As well as suggesting his top recommendations, Mr Bowman also added a warning.
He said: “It’s important to remember, even if a car appears to be a great deal upfront, unexpected maintenance expenses can add up quickly.
“If you find that car ownership is too costly, consider borrowing a car from a friend or family member instead.”
Car ownership has become an increasingly high-profile topic as recent data suggests the number of people who own a car could nose dive.
Founder of Wagonex Toby Kernon told the Express there were many reasons for this.
He said: “With this change in behaviour, car owners need to ask themselves if owning a car full time is necessary for their lifestyle.
“While it has previously been the norm to own or lease a car, is it still appropriate in 2023 when lifestyles and financial outgoings have changed so significantly?”
He added: “Car subscription is becoming an increasingly attractive and modern option for people to access a vehicle for a specific period of time, without the long-term commitment of owning or paying for a car when you don’t need to.”
Despite this, data released this week suggests that rather than subscribing to cars, people are still buying them.
A study by Hastings Direct has revealed one in six Britons have more vehicles registered at their address than 12 months ago.
The majority of people said they had bought a new car because they needed it for their commute.
