From depreciation to roadside kits, automotive expert Lauren Fix, also known as “The Car Coach,” highlights what drivers often overlook and how to stay prepared.
Lauren Fix
Automotive Expert, “The Car Coach”
What is the biggest thing people usually overlook about car ownership?
Most people think the biggest cost of owning a car is the price tag on the window. It’s not. The real cost of car ownership comes after you drive off the lot, and it adds up quickly if you’re not paying attention. I’m talking about maintenance, depreciation, insurance, fuel, and now more than ever, the cost of technology updates and repairs.
One of the most overlooked aspects is depreciation. Most new cars lose nearly half their value in the first five years. People don’t factor that into their long-term cost of ownership. It’s not just about what you pay now; it’s about what your car will be worth later.
Then, there’s maintenance and repair. Too many people ignore basic upkeep like oil changes, tire rotations, or brake checks. That neglect shortens your vehicle’s life and leads to bigger, more expensive problems down the road. Today’s cars are loaded with sensors and electronics, and when something goes wrong, even a simple fix can become a thousand-dollar repair.
Let’s not forget insurance and taxes, especially with states implementing new fees for gas-powered cars or mileage-based tax pilot programs. These recurring costs can vary widely depending on where you live and what you drive, yet most people don’t research that before buying.
Finally, a lot of buyers don’t think about how their car fits their lifestyle five or 10 years down the road. Will it be big enough for a growing family? Will it hold its value well if they need to sell it? Is it future-proof with the technology inside, or will it feel outdated in a year or two?
Car ownership isn’t just about transportation; it’s a long-term investment. Ignore the hidden costs, and you’ll pay the price later. Plan ahead, maintain your car, and choose a vehicle that fits your needs, not just your wants.
What should someone do first if they break down on the side of a busy highway?
The first and most important thing is safety — yours and your passengers’. If your car is drivable, even slightly, move it to the far-right shoulder or as far off the road as possible. Turn on your hazard lights immediately. If it’s dark or visibility is poor, keep your lights on. Stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened, especially if you’re near traffic. Too many people are injured or killed after getting out of their car on a highway.
If you absolutely must exit — say the car is smoking or there’s a fire risk — do so carefully, from the side away from traffic. Stand far from the roadway and behind a guardrail if there is one.
Next, call for roadside assistance, whether it’s from AAA, your insurance provider, or a local tow company. Be ready to describe your location with mile markers, highway signs, or GPS coordinates.
Never accept help from strangers. Politely wave them off and wait for a professional. It’s a stressful situation, but staying calm and following these steps could save your life. The goal is always to get help without creating a second emergency.
What are your must-have items for a roadside emergency kit?
Every driver should keep a well-stocked emergency kit in their vehicle. It’s not optional, it’s essential. I’ve tested dozens of kits over the years, and the perfect one includes the tools that can keep you safe, get you back on the road, or help until real help arrives.
Start with the basics: a quality jumper box or jumper cables, a tire inflator with sealant, and a multitool. A portable phone charger or power bank is critical; your smartphone is your lifeline in an emergency.
Add road flares or LED safety triangles to alert other drivers, and include a flashlight with extra batteries. A first aid kit, work gloves, and duct tape come in handy more often than you’d think. In winter, pack a blanket, ice scraper, and cat litter or sand for traction.
Don’t forget bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a copy of your insurance and registration in a waterproof pouch.
These items can turn a roadside breakdown from dangerous to manageable. Don’t wait for something to go wrong; build your kit now. I keep one in every car I own, and you should, too.
Are there any emergency items that most people never think of?
Absolutely. There are several key items most drivers overlook, and they can make a big difference in a roadside emergency. One of the most important is a window breaker and seatbelt cutter combo tool. In a crash, especially if your vehicle ends up in water or the seatbelt jams, this small tool can save your life. Keep it mounted within reach, not in the glovebox.
Another overlooked item is a headlamp instead of just a flashlight. It leaves your hands free if you’re changing a tire or checking under the hood at night. Reflective vests are also rarely included in store-bought kits, but they’re essential if you have to exit your vehicle in traffic or at night.
Most people also forget cash in small bills. This is helpful if you’re in a rural area where digital payments or ATMs are unavailable. A paper map is another smart addition in case your phone dies or there’s no signal.
Lastly, a spare phone charger that plugs into the car’s 12V outlet, not just USB, can keep your phone powered when you need it most.
Preparedness isn’t just about tools; it’s about thinking ahead. These often-forgotten items can be lifesavers.
Are portable jump starters worth the investment over traditional jumper cables?
Portable jump starters are one of the smartest investments you can make for your vehicle. Traditional jumper cables only work if you can find another car to help you, and that’s not always a guarantee, especially in remote areas or late at night. A portable jump starter puts you in control. You don’t have to rely on a stranger or wait hours for roadside assistance.
Today’s jump starters are compact, lightweight, and easy to use, even if you’re not mechanically inclined. Many models also double as power banks to charge your phone, flashlight, or even a small air compressor. Some even have built-in safety features that prevent sparks or reverse polarity if you connect the clamps incorrectly.
In winter, when batteries are more likely to die, or during summer road trips when you’re far from help, having a portable jump starter can mean the difference between a quick fix and a long, expensive delay. I never leave home without one in each of my cars.
It’s one of those tools you hope you never need, but when you do, it pays for itself instantly. Yes, it’s absolutely worth the investment.
