New car, more places to go...

So, it's been more than 2 weeks now since I've had my car :D More than 2 weeks since I've used my bike. Although I'm not excited about the added expenses (I estimate for now approximately $200 extra per month), having a car to drive does bring a sense of independence I've not had for a long time.

What prompted me to get a car after 2 years of braving the cold night air at midnight and being burnt under the hot summer sun in the afternoon? Hmm, I guess it came about when I started driving again when I went back to Malaysia for a visit. The feel of the wheel in my hands, being in control and going distances beyond 2 miles was unbelievable. Nevermind the fact that I had to go through the ridiculous traffic jams on Federal Highway and Subang Jaya. I miss driving.

So, when the opportunity came that a colleague of mine was selling her car for $2000, I knew I had to get it. It was easier than I expected. Since I already have a driver's license, it was a matter of signing and getting the 'pink slip' or Certificate of Title from the owner and have it transfered to my name at the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or even at the AAA office, which I did together with my auto insurance.

Getting an auto insurance however turned out to be a little trickier. Apparently, while I was asking for a quote, I needed to present 3 years worth of traffic report from my country. And for Malaysia, according to the agent, the only way to get it was through an attorney??? Not sure if it was true but it sounded almost impossible to get right away. If you have the time, perhaps somebody back home could get the necessary documents. Since I didn't have that option, he proceeded to forward my case to their carrier, Infinity, which was affiliated with AAA. Another plus to get a discount for the insurance is if you have more than a year's worth of driving experience in California plus driving experience back from your country. They also calculate based on the car you're driving. Mine is a 1995 Honda Civic DX 3 doors hatchback. With all of that taken into account, my insurance per month came up to $108. I also needed to pay for the AAA club membership which was another $49 per month.

At the moment my $20 fuel hasn't finished. So, with that, $200 per month expenditure. Sigh...But, since then, I've visited a friend's house, gone for late night movies and hiking! ;D Now, I need to think of the car maintenance. The car needs a decent wash, oil and filter change and somebody to show me how to work the air pressure machine.