Car

## 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 | --- ## 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 --- ## 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 | --- ## 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 --- ## 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 --- ## 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` |