Owning a vehicle is a big responsibility. And a big cost investment. Neglecting your vehicle and what it needs doesn’t only affect you. It also affects the safety of your passengers and fellow travelers on the road. If you want to be a safe driver, you need to know these six harsh truths about vehicle ownership.
1. Cars get sick sometimes.
Cars are higher tech than ever, but that doesn’t mean they’re perfect. All vehicles require routine repair and maintenance to perform at their best.
Don’t get mad about a bill from the mechanic. If you don’t have an emergency savings account, begin one now. The average car owner spends $1475 dollars annually on repairs. Accept the consequences and do better next time. Responsible drivers are ready to deal with these issues.
2. You can’t control everything.
You could get a flat tire on the way to work. You could breakdown on the coldest day of the year. Your check engine light could start blinking in the middle of a vacation.
I am not trying to be a pessimist; I simply want you to be prepared. Please don’t kid yourself. The unexpected can (and does) happen… so you might as well brace yourself. I see it all the time at my repair shop.
3. Mechanics aren’t mind readers.
Car problems are like medical conditions. There are several potential causes for any individual issue.
Coughing could be caused by asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, or a sinus infection. An overheating engine could be caused by a cooling system leak, burst hoses, bad thermostat, or defective radiator.
Find a good mechanic and make their job easier by describing any strange sights, smells, sounds, or other symptoms as specifically as possible.
4. Auto shops don’t always advertise essential services.
Some businesses are so focused on getting the job done, that they forget to educate their customers.
Marketing familiar services like oil changes and “tune ups” is easier than convincing a person to invest in an unfamiliar service.
Your best bet? Remove guesswork from the equation. Don’t purchase random repairs. Look up your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and follow those recommendations.
5. Neglecting your auto’s needs is actually selfish and immature.
Putting off a repair doesn’t just affect you. It affects anyone who occupies your passenger seat.
Don’t you want to feel confident about the safety of friends, family, and fellow drivers? If you fail to keep your car in good condition, you could cause a car accident that kills or injures another person. Don’t risk it.
6. If you want to save money later, you must spend money now.
It costs roughly $2,000 to repair a catalytic converter (a part of your engine that prevents air pollution).
Catalytic converters don’t simply stop working. They are killed by neglect. Catalytic converters work in concert with oxygen sensors, which detect the amount of air and fuel in your engine.
If an oxygen sensor stops working, the catalytic converter can’t do its job. It costs $200 to replace an oxygen sensor. Failing to do that could cause a $2,000 repair. Preventive auto repair is truly an investment that pays for itself.
In essence, maintaining your vehicle isn’t just about preserving its performance and longevity; it’s about prioritizing safety and demonstrating consideration for others. By taking proactive steps to address maintenance issues, you not only enhance your own safety but also contribute to the overall well-being of the driving community. So, rather than viewing maintenance as a burdensome chore or an unnecessary expense, consider it an essential aspect of responsible vehicle ownership—one that can ultimately save lives and prevent needless suffering on the road.
