Category Archives: Reader tips

F.A.

Shop around for parts, especially in places where there are a large number of parts suppliers. An example of this is when we priced a CV joint for a Nissan Sunny. From a wrecker it was $250 and we had to take it off ourselves. The cost of a new part from a dealer was […]

P.L., Auckland.

It’s possible to cut travel costs and enjoy driving free rental cars and camper vans in New Zealand by checking out the online transfer deals. Most of the time drivers also receive a free tank of petrol! How does this work? Rental car companies need to reposition their fleet for new hires and usually spend […]

F.A.

Mag wheels can add value to the resale value of car. A few years back I worked for a company that dealt with car sales yards all over the country. Upon visiting these yards, time and time again I was told how they would have a vehicle for months on the lot with no interest. […]

Reader

It is possible to more than half your motor vehicle insurance premium by increasing the excess or amount of risk you are prepared to take on. This would not cover those little bumps and scrapes but would cover major damage and a “write-off”.

J.O., Christchurch.

I have an old, but very tidy car, a 1983 Ford laser, which I bought 3 years ago from an old man. I have never had to put oil in the car and two new tyres cost me $110, which included alignment and balancing! Of course I get it serviced every year but on the […]

Petroleum expert

A petroleum expert with 31 years in the industry has some tips and tricks to get more of your money’s worth for every litre. – Only buy or fill up your car in the early morning when the ground temperature is still cold. Remember that all service stations have their storage tanks buried below ground. […]

Grant,Christchurch.

When the supermarket has a 20 cent off per litre promotion do this. Go to the customer service and buy the amount you need to spend to get the discount voucher. Example $200 gift card/voucher, you will then get a voucher. After doing your grocery shopping use the voucher to pay for groceries and you […]