Budgeting for Auto Repairs

[brainyblonde]

I had an unexpected auto repair this week. Unexpected in that my two-year old battery died and had to be replaced. As far as auto repairs go, the cost was minor. (It could have been the alternator and much more $!)

I drive an 8 year old vehicle that I have serviced regularly, but this little episode got me to thinking about making an adjustment to my budget. I just don't know how much I should set aside every month, and if I should put the money into the emergency fund or separate it.

Any thoughts?

[SHOPGIRL]

Well, you could always add a little more to your EF. Or, if you don't have a car payment, estimate how much your car payment would be on a newer car and deposit it into a savings account. If you had an unexpected repair, you could always use that money or if you decide that you need a different car,you'll have money saved up for a newer one.