One of the things I miss about being married is that my ex-husband knew a lot about cars. 9 times out of 10 he could save us both from taking our cars to the shop. And if the fix that was needed was beyond his capabilities, he would prep me for the mechanic. You don't need this, you might need that, if he says this he's just trying to take your money, if he says that then you need it, etc. As a married girl I could go to the auto shop armed with knowledge and information. I could say things like, "My husband says I don't need that," with an undertone of, "I'm not just some girl who's dumb about cars, I'm some girl who's dumb about cars with a husband who's smart about cars. So there."
As a single girl, I go to the auto shop feeling very much like I do in non English speaking countries. What language is this, again? What are they saying to me? They're smiling so I guess I should smile. Now they look concerned, what's wrong? Why are they pointing at that thing? Oh, they want money. How much? That seems like a lot. Are you explaining why, is that what that sound is? AAAAHH, whatever, just take the damn money, I don't care anymore! I'm just a girl who's dumb about cars. Sad face.
So, I started asking my dad's opinion. He got a call from me every couple months regarding anything from a car wash to a major check up (or is it called a tune up? I don't know, I'm a girl). "Dad, how much does it cost to do this? They're charging me this much, does that sound right?" Eventually, I found a mechanic I could trust and I didn't have to call my dad anymore. Then I moved and had to find a new mechanic and dad started getting calls again. So, now I'm a girl who's dumb about cars with a dad who's smart about cars.
I suppose as long as I have a dad or a husband (or both) there's a very good chance I'll never have to learn anything about cars. One down, one to go.
Ohhhhkay. So this is something that annoys the hell out of me in regard to women (and as a father of an 8 year old little lady, I get to say shit like this because I will not be part of the problem). Let someone... ANYONE (I volunteer) teach you the basics! In reality, it's great to have someone to rely on that can help you out, but for your own safety and the peace of mind of the guys that are sitting around worrying about you, learn how to change your oil, your tire, a fuse, etc. All the basics so we don't have to worry about you being stranded on the side of the road waiting for us to come to the rescue. I mean jeez. Rape happens.
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