Before you begin strategising, get a clear picture of your current loan. Know how much is outstanding, your interest rate and whether there are any penalties for extra repayments or an early payout.

It's common for loan repayments to land on an odd number. Instead of sticking to this, consider rounding up to the nearest even number. For instance, if your repayment is $477 a month, why not round it up to $500? This simple strategy could help shave off months or even years from your loan term.

Rather than sticking to the standard monthly repayments, consider switching to fortnightly. As there are 26 fortnights in a year, you'll end up making the equivalent of an extra month's repayment each year. Over time, this can significantly reduce the life of your loan and the interest you pay. Remember to check with your lender or broker, as not all loans allow for extra repayments or changes in repayment frequency.

If you come across some unexpected cash – a tax return, work bonus, or selling unwanted items – consider making a lump sum repayment on your car loan. Not only does this reduce your loan balance and the interest you'll pay, it can also provide a buffer in case you miss a future repayment.

In this era of the sharing economy, your car can be more than just a mode of transport; it can be a source of income. Consider renting out your car when it's not in use or becoming part of a ridesharing service. The additional income can go straight towards your car loan repayments.

If your financial situation has improved since taking out your car loan, you might be eligible for a more competitive interest rate. Refinancing to a lower rate while maintaining your current repayment amount can help you pay off your loan faster. But remember to check if refinancing will lengthen your loan term or come with additional fees.