Unexpected Car Expenses

This Sunday night, my car greeted me by making a sad sputtering noise when I tried to start the engine. My last major repair cost $350 in May. Before that, I spent $400 in November 2008. I’m not overjoyed at the prospect of another big repair, but I understand that my car is old. And, well, old cars need more attention. Car repairs usually cost me $1,000 a year, so… I’m right on schedule.

My most recent BlogHer post was on the ways that unemployment can cost more than you think. The three major areas I discussed were (1) health insurance, (2) travel, and (3) friends / hobbies-related expenses. However, I realized that I’ve forgotten one big cost – the unexpected costs that car ownership can bring.

Aside from the normal, recurring costs, such as car payment, routine car servicing, and auto insurance, you also have to take into account costs of accidents, major repairs, and possibly car replacement. Being unemployed does not mean that your car will cooperate and delay its troubles. And in the morning I’ll learn just how much this unexpected expense will cost me. [Edit: car repair "only" cost $120! Yes for beating anticipated costs.]

In other news, I’ve made it through an initial screen and will be moving on to a second round of interviews. Your good thoughts must have helped – I’d appreciate it if you can please keep ‘em coming.