Thursday, August 20, 2009

Project 365: Day 139

Crapshoot



You know what sucks? What sucks is that we had to get our car fixed and when the mechanic finished fixing it he told me that I should be aware that my alternator may break soon. He explained that it wasn't throwing a charge to the level they like to see but it is OK for now. So, of course, I asked him how one might predict when an alternator is about to break, so that I could bring it in BEFORE it breaks. He told me that you can't predict it, but I will know when it is broken because the check battery light will go on. Then, after further questioning from me, he told me that after the warning light goes on, I will have just enough battery power left to pull over to the side of the road. So, now I feel like every time I drive the car, I have the potential to become stranded with a busted car. I HATE this feeling! Since it is a $450 repair and an old car, we are not really interested in repairing it preemptively, so I have to learn to cope with it.

I have identified a few possible ways to help make myself feel more prepared for a random breakdown and all around less stressed out about driving what I feel is now a ticking time bomb. For starters, I signed both Paul and I up for AAA. I am planning on starting an emergency knitting project that I can leave in the car in the case that it takes AAA a long time to come with a tow truck. I also make sure that every time I drive somewhere I have my cell phone in my bag. Somehow these things make me feel a lot better.

4 comments:

  1. Ugh that sucks, my car has broken down so many times I can't even remember! Yay for AAA though, we've had many a free tow from them.

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  2. That's too bad you already signed up for AAA! Not to "Should" on you, but Better World Club is way better! Look into it--the Car Talk guys support it and there's a 10% off coupon in your Blue Sky Guide. You can also get road side assistance for your bike if you get a flat, etc. Maybe next year? Good luck with your car!

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  3. Bleh! What a horrible feeling ... I'd be losing my mind with anxiety. I think AAA was a super idea, so glad you did it - especially if it helps your peace of mind.

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  4. I've had great luck with AAA, too. Just read the fine print, they may not come to your rescue if you're on a toll road. When I broke down on the Thruway in NY state I had to have someone tow me off the next exit and then have AAA tow me from there. Good idea with the knitting project!

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