Polish your own car and save money.

For those of us who drive, it is quite common to see those kiosks in car parks which offer to wash and polish our cars for $40 or so. Then, if we become "members", we get a member price ($28?) and this would involve signing up for a "package" which requires us to pay in advance for a few sessions.

I have always wanted to try these and approached one kiosk a couple of weeks ago. The old uncle manning the kiosk put me off with his attitude. Business was very good, I guess.

Anyway, after almost 3 years, the bonnet of my red colour car was looking washed out. Seriously, it puzzles me why the bonnet was the only part of the car that looked like it was dying. The rest of the car, after a good wash, would still look pretty good.

Yesterday, when I went shopping with my sister, I decided to buy a bottle of car polish. I didn't want those heavy wax type which I have used before for my previous cars. Those really worked up a sweat. I saw on TV that they have those spray on ones. Spray, spread and buff. Looks easy. Cost: S$12.00 only.

I went home, washed the bonnet and proceeded to spray, spread and buff. Since it was the first polish in almost 3 years, I did it twice over and when I was done, I was perspiring. Good work out!

The car looks better now although not showroom condition.

I am sure I still have plenty of polish left in the bottle. Should last a few more years.

So, if you are thinking of giving your car a polish, maybe you could try doing it yourself this weekend. Save money and get a good workout at the same time.

Used car dealers in Singapore: Any recommendations?

I have a very good friend who is thinking of buying a used car. For some reason, he thinks that I would know something about buying used cars. I think it is because I am such a frugal person.

Unfortunately, when it comes to cars, my preference has always been to buy new. I know. I am terrible in this department.

Anyway, this is a call for help. Please share any recommendations or warnings which you might have about used car dealers here in Singapore.

I guess this could also be a resource for readers who might be looking to buy a used car in the near future too. So, although it has nothing to do with investments and with being financially prudent, here goes my cry: HELP!