Why car wash memberships often aren’t worth it (3 20 24)

Author

Anthony Hazzard
March 20, 2024

Later in this email, find out how to be smart about the second-biggest expense in most of our everyday lives.

💵 Today’s Top Stories
Car Wash

This apparently lucrative car wash business model is exploding. Here’s why you should be skeptical about signing up. Read more.

Stock market

Clark gave a predictable answer to this listener question. But he also made an interesting prediction about the future. Read more.

Credit cards in a wallet

Clark says you need at least one 2% cash back credit card. Here are the best options on the market. Read more.

Streaming

Want to spend less? Of course you do. These deals on Sling TV, YouTube TV and Fubo will help you. Plus, get Paramount+, Apple TV+, Prime Video and more for free. Read more.

💸 Today’s Top Savings Rates

Check out our updated list of Clark.com-approved high-yield savings accounts with the highest rates. Here are the top five APYs on our list as of March 20, 2024.

Savings Rates
🚘️ How To Stay Sensible With Your Vehicle

Elevated housing costs adds pressure to the rest of our budget. That includes our vehicles.

Interest rates on auto loans are not low right now either.

Clark wants you to take a long look in the mirror: “The reality? Most people are driving more vehicle than they actually need.”

Here are some of his top tips:

  • Try not to trade in your vehicle when your old one still works.

  • Prequalify for financing at a credit union. And shop rates.

  • Limit your maximum loan term to 42 months (OK, 48 months if you must, Clark says.)

“If [a 48-month] payment doesn’t fit into your budget, it’s not time to buy a vehicle. Period,” Clark says. (He noted exceptions for wrecked, stolen or non-operational cars.)

📊 Stat of the Day

🏘️ 7.4%: Share of all properties in the United States that aren’t insured. It represents more than 6 million homeowners without homeowners insurance – and $1.6 trillion in unprotected property value.

💰️ Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals
Beach
Alaska Cruise
🎙️ Podcast

Auto insurance has gone up, up and away. Clark discovered stats that show the differences in rate increases across several insurance companies. You won’t believe it! Also, have you noticed car washes popping up all around? Clark explains what’s going on and the rip off you need to avoid.

☎️ Need Money Help?

The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.

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