Drivers could save £1k a year by keeping tyres inflated and washing car at home

Drivers have been hit with a lot of motoring changes this year.

Petrol prices are still quite high and with new rules on the road, it's also costing motorists a lot.

According to a study by NerdWallet, the annual cost of owning a car costs £5,744, over 20% of the average annual salary.

READ MORE: Four new motoring laws to hit next month – from phone usage to driving abroad

Now the experts at Leasing Options have urged drivers to make a few changes which could work wonders for expenses.

Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, said: "The cost of owning a car is once again putting a strain on Brits.

"People across the country are looking for ways to cut costs, no matter how big or small."

Here are four ways to save money behind the wheel…

Keeping tyres inflated and reducing the amount drivers drastically break can save up to 18% on every tank of fuel.

With the average annual cost of tank of petrol at £1,272, that's a saving of over £228.

The experts said: "The general rule is to keep your car's paintwork appearing as new you should wash it every week.

"Washing the car yourself can save over £160, based on the UK's average car wash price.

"Not only is it cheaper, but drivers can also take the time to pay attention to detail to keep the paintwork looking new for longer."

According to Leasing Options, comparing car insurance quotes can save £137 on average.

Insurance providers offer exclusive quotes to new customers, so it's worth taking the time out to check the best deals.

Better yet, motorists can go back to their current provider to see if they can match or beat that exclusive quote.

There are numerous small maintenance tasks they can perform to avoid a costly trip to the garage.

Tasks like changing windscreen wipers, replacing an air filter and fixing new headlight bulbs are all easily done.

Doing just these maintenance tasks at home instead of in a mechanic's garage would save £78 per year.

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