One of the largest purchases made by families outside of a home is an automobile. True financial responsibility requires proactive action in every area of ones life. One area were there is routine lack of action
is automotive maintenance and repairs.
Automotive ownership including maintenance, repair and fuel costs account for
approximately 22% of total take home income. This amount coupled with all of the
other household expenses leave limited funds remaining for unexpected
repairs and expenses.
AAA surveyed 1009
adult drivers and determined that 25% of those individuals were unable to pay
for a major car repair ($2000) and 12% of those surveyed would be unable to pay
for a semi-major repair costing ($1000).
When considering the average cost of a monthly car payment in 2014 was
$450, having an unexpected car repair could cause one to make
a tough choice of completing an auto repair or remitting an automotive payment. Approximately 40%
of all vehicle repossessions are a result of the car owner having to make the
choice of vehicle repair or car payment. Many automotive repairs can be avoided through proactive, routine maintenance.
The following
services when performed according to manufacture recommendations can
serve as savers of heartache, time and money.
- Oil changes.
- Fluid flush and change
- Tire rotation
- Air filter service
- Routine transmission service
- Engine tune up.
Of course vehicle
service does not serve as a replacement for saving and financial security but
these activities help by keeping cash in your pocket instead of in the pockets of
the auto repair shop.