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stuck without wheels - what do you do when your car's in the shop?
My car's gonna be in the shop for at least a week (ugh, timing couldn't be worse). Wondering if it's worth shelling out for a rental or just trying to bum rides off friends and coworkers. Anyone been through this?
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Have you checked if your insurance covers rentals during repairs? Mine did last time, saved me a bunch. Might be worth a quick call before you start bugging coworkers for rides...
"Have you checked if your insurance covers rentals during repairs? Mine did last time, saved me a bunch."
Good tip, but I'd double-check the fine print first. Last time my car was in the shop, I thought I was covered too - turns out my policy only kicked in if the repairs were due to an accident, not regular maintenance or mechanical issues. Learned that one the hard way after a 20-minute hold with customer service...
If insurance doesn't pan out, here's what usually works for me: first, map out public transit options (if they're decent in your area). If that's a no-go, see if your mechanic offers loaner cars - some smaller shops do this as a courtesy. And if all else fails, there's always bribing coworkers with coffee and donuts. Just don't overdo it or they'll start expecting breakfast every day.
The “bum coworkers for rides” option depends a lot on whether those rides actually line up with your schedule. I’d compare the rental’s full cost, including taxes, fees, and any extra insurance, against the trips you need and how reliably friends or coworkers can cover them. If a missed ride could disrupt work or an essential errand, the rental may be worth the cost; if rides cover those trips consistently, it may not be.