Car repairs rarely become expensive overnight. More often, the big bill starts with a small problem that was ignored, delayed, or handled the wrong way.
A missed service, low tire pressure, a warning light you keep putting off, or the wrong replacement part can allow wear to build up. By the time the problem becomes impossible to ignore, the repair may involve more parts, more labor, or even a larger component that could have been protected with earlier maintenance.
The good news? Many costly repair situations start with habits you can change. For Filipino drivers dealing with daily traffic, heat, rain, and long commutes, consistent maintenance can make ownership more predictable. Here are five common car maintenance mistakes and the smarter habits that can help keep your vehicle - and your repair budget - in better shape.