10 Tips for Reducing Costs and Increasing Profit at Uber

The Mathematics of Small Gains

A savings of R$ 0,05/km may seem insignificant. But for those who run 4,000 km/month, they are R$ 200 extra in the pocket without making an extra run.

The 10 tips

1. Do preventive, not corrective review

Changing brake pads before they run out (R$ 200) is much cheaper than changing discs + pads afterwards (R$ 800+). Preventive review every 20,000 km pays back 3–5x.

2. Calibrate tires weekly

Tires calibrated below 1–2 PSI of the recommended increase consumption by 3–4% and accelerate wear. A weekly calibration is free at many stations.

3. Switch to ethanol (if the 70% rule favors it)

Consult daily: ethanol < 70% of gasoline = supplies ethanol. Many drivers use gasoline out of habit and throw away R$ 100–200/month.

4. Compare gas station prices with apps

Waze and Posto Certo show live prices. A difference of R$ 0,20/l on a 40 litre supply saves R$ 8 — R$ 64 on 8 monthly supplies.

5. Avoid km driven without running

Every empty mile is pure cost. Position yourself strategically using Uber's heat map, rather than spinning randomly around waiting for rides.

6. Negotiate prices with regular mechanics

Fixed customers get 10–20% labor discounts. Find a trusted mechanic and become a loyal customer.

7. Buy tires in sets and wholesale

Tires purchased in an online store (with installation in partner rubber) cost 20–30% less than in a neighborhood store.

8. Review insurance annually

The value of the car decreases over time, but some insurance does not automatically adjust the premium. Collect insurance every year.

9. Consider CNG if running more than 3,000 km/month

The CNG kit costs R$ 3.500-5,000 but pays for itself in ~18 months. From there, it's pure profit.

10. Monitor actual profit, not gross

Drivers who track real profit daily make better decisions: when to stop, when to continue, when to switch platforms.

Quantify each improvement

👉 [Test each tip in the calculator](/) — Adjust consumption, fuel price or maintenance cost and see how much each change generates extra profit per month.