I’ve Lived on Social Security for 7 Years: 5 Items I Always Buy for My Vehicle

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Living off that income doesnt leave a lot of room fordiscretionary spending.

Even maintaining and driving a car can get expensive on that income.

Here are the car expenses she prioritizeseven on a fixed income.

James has a 2007 Ford Taurus.

She credits being able to keep it for so long to regular oil changes.

I dont drive very much, so I just do it once a year, James said.

But, I would never skip that.

James pays about $25 for an oil change.

Once a year, thats not too big of an expense.

James pays for a yearly basic membership to AAA.

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She remarked that this has come in handy in times when her car has been in a bind.

Its really a matter of safety.

I feel safer knowing I have the membership if something really catastrophic were to happen.

A basic membership is $65 a year.

She always heeds their advice, but makes sure to dosome comparison shopping.

One told me I needed to get my brakes fixed and was going to charge me $500!

I was so glad I didnt settle for that first price.

Whenever were going to have a few nice days, I like to get the car washed.

I really like to keep a clean car.

James doesnt get her car washed very often probably only once or twice a year.

This way, it doesnt eat into her budget too much.

Its not great to be known for having a stinky car.

James makes sure she always buys air fresheners to keep her car smelling fresh.

Its nice to get in and not have it smell like food, or just plain bad.

I replace the air freshenerevery few monthsor so.