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When most drivers think about cashback apps, they focus mainly on groceries or fuel savings. However, platforms like Rakuten and Ibotta offer far broader opportunities, especially when it comes to managing car expenses. From oil changes to new tires and auto maintenance supplies, cashback apps can help you cut costs on the essentials needed to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Save on Auto Maintenance with Rakuten

Rakuten partners with hundreds of retailers, including well-known automotive stores like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts. Through Rakuten’s portal, you can earn cashback on online purchases for everything from oil filters to windshield wipers.

For example, AutoZone frequently offers 2% to 4% cashback when you shop through Rakuten. If you spend $100 on routine maintenance items such as motor oil, spark plugs, or brake pads, that could mean $2 to $4 back instantly—on top of any available retailer promotions or discounts.

Advance Auto Parts often runs even higher promotions through Rakuten during sales periods, sometimes offering 6% cashback or more. For bigger ticket items like batteries or alternators, these rewards quickly add up.

Earn Cashback on Tires and Repairs with Ibotta

Ibotta is traditionally known for groceries, but it also offers select cashback deals on auto services and supplies. While Ibotta’s automotive offers vary by season and location, users can often find deals at tire retailers and local service centers. You might earn $10 or more back on a set of new tires or get cash rewards for oil change packages at national chains.

Ibotta also regularly features cashback deals for convenience store purchases, which can come in handy if you need emergency automotive fluids like antifreeze or windshield washer fluid while on the road.

Stacking Cashback for Maximum Savings

To maximize your savings potential, consider stacking multiple rewards:

  • Shop through Rakuten to earn cashback on your automotive supply purchase.

  • Use a rewards credit card that offers additional cashback for online shopping or automotive spending.

  • Check Ibotta for any bonus offers or rebates on related products.

  • Apply any retailer-specific promo codes or loyalty program points.

By combining cashback apps, credit card rewards, and retail promotions, you can dramatically reduce the out-of-pocket cost for regular car maintenance and unexpected repairs.

Bonus Tip: Use Fluz for Automotive Gift Card Savings

While Rakuten and Ibotta dominate online cashback shopping, Fluz is another tool worth adding to your savings arsenal. You can purchase discounted gift cards for merchants like AutoZone and use them during checkout, stacking Fluz cashback with any existing online offers or in-store promotions.

Drive Smarter and Spend Less

Maintaining a car is non-negotiable, but overpaying for maintenance and repairs is not. By integrating cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta into your automotive expenses strategy—and pairing them with Fluz for instant gift card savings—you can keep your vehicle in top shape without draining your budget.