I’m not the best with cars. I was never really into them when I was younger, and I never learned how to tinker with them or fix them. I don’t even know how to change a tire! So, when I graduate and head out into the “real world,” one of my goals is to make sure I avoid car breakdowns, because I really wouldn’t know what to do if I had one. However, I’m not sure I can afford to buy a brand-new car. What can I do to get a reliable ride?

Getting a reliable vehicle doesn’t have to mean buying a brand-new car. In fact, it usually has more to do with your own actions as the car’s owner. However, there are a few things we should mention first about car shopping.

Cars come in all different price ranges, of course, so you may be able to buy a new, reliable vehicle for less than the cost of some used vehicle. You could also opt to lease, say experts behind some of the best Audi lease deals available. Leasing has its pros and cons, but it’s a very effective way to always have a brand-new vehicle – which, when it comes to avoiding breakdowns, can be a plus. If you choose to buy a used car, your options to making sure your purchase is reliable include opting for certified used cars from reliable dealers.

However, the real key to keeping your car running well is caring for it properly. You say you’re no fledgling mechanic, but that’s alright. You don’t need to be an expert to ensure that your car gets proper care. Just find a reliable mechanic with an ASE automotive degree and certification. Note that you may be required to get your maintenance and repairs taken care of at the dealership, under the terms of some purchases and leases. Once you have a relationship with a great mechanic, you can count on them to help you schedule regular preventative maintenance. And, when your car needs repairs, just be sure to get them done quickly, so that the situation doesn’t deteriorate further.

That’s all you really need to do to help your vehicle stay reliable. However, it’s also true that there’s no surefire way to avoid car trouble entirely. A flat tire or other minor issue can occur quickly, even if you’ve done all you can to keep your vehicle happy.

So, perhaps you should consider investing in a roadside assistance package. A membership in AAA, for instance, could go a long way toward helping you be a little less fearful of car trouble.

It also wouldn’t hurt for you to learn a few basic roadside skills. Changing a tire is a fairly straightforward process. You can learn the steps by reading online guides or watching videos, and a few practice runs in the safety of a driveway or parking lot will help you feel prepared to do the same thing in a pinch.

You don’t have to be a “car person” to take care of a vehicle or be prepared for basic roadside situations. If you follow the advice laid out here, we think you’ll be a lot more comfortable on the road!

“Focus on the solution, not the problem.” – My Daily Inspiration and Motivation