5 Reasons Why Your Driving Costs Are Unnecessarily Excessive

Spoiler alert: car ownership is expensive. 

The harsh reality is that owning and running a vehicle in 2025 is going to cost a lot of money. However, there’s nothing wrong with spending cash on something that brings so much value to your life.  The problems surface when you start to waste funds. 

Here are five reasons why your costs are higher than they need to be, and what to do about it.

#1. You’ve accepted financial mistreatment

Keeping costs down is hard enough at the best of times, but financial justice makes it infinitely harder. If you were mis-sold car finance, a PCP claimback could stop you from missing out on thousands. It is money that is rightfully yours, but you’ll only recover it if you are prepared to make the first moves.

Financial injustice could also relate to a crash that wasn’t your fault. Standing up for the right outcome isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. For your mindset as well as your finances. 

#2. You don’t shop for better deals on related costs

Purchasing the right car at the right price is obviously a priority. But the costs associated with driving do not end there. Insurances, taxes, and other costs will all bump up the total expense. However, many drivers simply take the first deals they see. Car insurance comparison checks can save you hundreds annually. Every single year.

It is also worth looking at alternative options like having named drivers. Checking the add-ons, such as free breakdown cover, can also influence your decisions. 

Image – Pixabay CC0

#3. You always call an expert

Your vehicle is a valuable possession, but it will need regular maintenance and TLC. Some jobs, like significant repairs, must be left to an expert. Still, there are times when professional work is not worth the money. DIY suspension upgrades are a great example of how you can improve the car on a budget. It’s also an immensely satisfying task.

Similarly, you do not have to spend money on basic maintenance like inflating the tyres or topping up the transmission fluid. You are more than capable. 

#4. Your driving style is inefficient 

Most drivers focus solely on the car purchase and other big costs. However, ongoing daily costs are at an all-time high due to rising fuel costs and inflation. As such, your driving style can have a significant impact. Advanced driving lessons can teach you to drive more economically. Meanwhile, removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle is highly advised.

Reducing the number of journeys you take is another big move. This could mean sharing rides to work or simply doing your errands in one day. 

#5.  You change cars too frequently 

Finally, car ownership will become expensive if you change models every year. When buying a new vehicle, it loses value as soon as you leave the forecourt. The best ways around this are to focus on used cars or opt for leasing options. Finding a car that you will be happy to drive for several years is arguably the most effective move, though.

Aside from the financial savings, it saves you a lot of time and hassle on admin. The road to more affordable driving starts now. 

Zachary Skinner

Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.