HALIFAX — Rising fuel prices and increasing vehicle maintenance expenses are placing growing financial pressure on drivers across Nova Scotia, with many motorists struggling to balance everyday transportation costs.
Rich Aucoin, a Halifax resident, says he has relied on the same used vehicle for nearly a decade after purchasing it for just $800. By regularly maintaining the car and extending its lifespan, he has managed to avoid the high costs of replacing it.
However, keeping older vehicles on the road is becoming increasingly expensive. Aucoin said his car is due for a motor vehicle inspection in the coming weeks and will require significant repairs to remain operational for the years ahead.
Statistics Canada reported in April that vehicle maintenance and repair costs rose 4.2 percent over the past year, adding further strain on household budgets already impacted by inflation.
At the same time, gasoline prices continue to climb sharply. In Halifax, the minimum self-service fuel price reached $1.96 per litre on Friday, marking an increase of 57 cents since late February.
According to the Canadian Automobile Association, fuel costs traditionally represent about one-third of total vehicle ownership expenses. With gas prices consuming a larger share of drivers’ budgets, industry experts warn that some Canadians may postpone essential repairs or routine maintenance to save money.
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