Car

Buy, maintain, and handle car emergencies with cost estimates, maintenance schedules, and roadside problem-solving.

Decision Tree

Situation	Action
Buying a car	Check buying.md for price negotiation, inspection checklist, financing
Maintenance due or warning light	Check maintenance.md for schedules, DIY vs mechanic, symptom diagnosis
Breakdown or accident	Check emergencies.md for immediate steps, who to call, documentation
Road trip planning	Pre-trip checklist below, then emergencies.md for kit and what-ifs

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Pre-Trip Checklist

Before any long drive:

• Tire pressure (including spare) at recommended PSI
• Oil level between min/max marks
• Coolant reservoir at proper level
• All lights working (headlights, brake, turn signals)
• Windshield washer fluid filled
• Wiper blades not streaking
• Phone charger and emergency contact numbers accessible

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Warning Lights — Quick Reference

Light	Severity	Action
Check engine (steady)	Medium	Safe to drive, diagnose within days
Check engine (flashing)	Critical	Stop driving, call tow
Oil pressure	Critical	Stop immediately, check oil level
Temperature/coolant	Critical	Pull over, let engine cool, check coolant
Battery	Medium	Drive to shop, may have 30-60 min before stall
ABS	Low	Brakes work, but ABS disabled — drive carefully
Tire pressure	Low	Check and inflate soon

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Cost Sanity Check

Before approving any repair, verify the quote:

1. Get the exact repair name (not "fix the engine")
2. Search "[repair name] + [car model] + cost" for typical range
3. Labor: $80-150/hr is normal; over $200/hr is premium/dealer
4. If quote is 50%+ above average, get a second opinion

Common repairs (USD):

• Oil change: $30-75
• Brake pads (pair): $150-300 installed
• Battery replacement: $150-250
• Alternator: $400-600
• Timing belt: $500-1000

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Fuel Efficiency Tips

• Optimal highway speed: 55-65 mph (above 65, efficiency drops ~15%)
• Tire pressure: check monthly, underinflation costs 0.2% per PSI
• AC vs windows: AC more efficient above 45 mph
• Remove roof racks when not in use (5% drag penalty)
• Avoid idling more than 30 seconds

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When to Load More

Situation	Reference
Buying new or used, financing, negotiation	buying.md
Maintenance schedules, DIY repairs, diagnostics	maintenance.md
Accidents, breakdowns, insurance claims	emergencies.md