Reducing motoring costs when driving 20,000 miles per year

Andy_L

http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/running_costs/index.html

AA's running costs guide, broking down by fixed costs & per mile costs

scaredofdebt

I was in a similar position, had to do long commutes, 150 miles a day. I wasn't paid anything for mileage as it was my choice to move further away from work.

Anyhow, I bought an '04 plate Mondeo 2.0 TDCi with 93k on the clock (it was 5 years old) it was a CAT D so it only cost me £3k with the repairs to get it on the road. It was over a grand cheaper than similar non CAT D models and in better condition once repaired.

Even though it needed a new DMF and injectors around 170k it still cost less than 20p a mile to run including fuel, depreciation, tax and insurance, averaging 56 MPG during the time I owned it.

I ran the car for around 4 years, averaging 25-30k annually and eventually scrapped it when the fuel pump went at 205k.

I would do the same again but go for a later Mondeo as the DMF issues are not as prevalent but try to get one pre DPF - although higher miles are not so likely to result in DPF issues.

You could also try a Passatt, Octavia etc

I currently run a Mini Clubman diesel that averages 65 MPG but the depreciation and servicing/repair costs on that will be higher than a Mondeo.

arcon5

£2800 left over after fuel to cover maintenance and depreciation.

Bloody good deal if you ask me. A reasonably okay car could be run for much less than that leaving a profit!!!!!!!!!!

arcon5

Hintza wrote: »

The OP is being taken for a ride by the company. Expecting him to run a car on those margins is effectively a salary sacrifice.

How'd ya figure that one? Op obviously doesn't have to run a shiny new audi, just a workhorse!!

ohreally

glothy wrote: »

It costs me 18p/mile. My main concern is that my car is going to be wrecked and worthless after a couple of years as I need to use it for personal use as well.

Then don't support their punitive business model. Why won't they supply a vehicle so their work can be done?