The last thing I wanted to happen today was to have car trouble. Unfortunately, that was all I could expect after neglecting my annual general service and doing none of the regular maintenance checks (I didn’t even check my windshield wiper blades or coolant levels).

It was only a matter of time before the car refused to turn on. I just really didn’t want it to be the day before my sister’s wedding. I know that I should have taken better care to understand why the check engine light turned on. But I was already running late to the reception, and what was a few more kilometres on the road?

The answer: a day spent stuck on the side of the road with an overheating engine.

After speaking to a local mechanic near Morayfield, I was able to understand the severity of the issue. Despite the fantastic customer service and friendly staff, my day was ruined. I should have kept up with my car’s maintenance more regularly. I hadn’t cared for the resale value, but I had never realised that it could mean getting stuck without a car for an extended period of time.

Luckily, they had a professional who could fix the problem with my transmission service within the day. Problem was, the wedding was tomorrow. What was I supposed to do? The thought of calling my sister made my heart race. I could already envision the scolding she would give me if she found out.

With my heart in my throat, I made a decision. I was getting to that wedding, no matter the cost. Reminding myself to know how to take better care of my car in the future, I booked a replacement vehicle. 

It took an overnight drive, more than a few cups of service station coffees, and a lifetime of staring down empty highways, but I made it to the wedding in time. My sister, whilst upset that I missed the reception, was more relieved that I had shown up for the big event. 

From then on, I swore to always make sure I was prepared for the next wedding. Luckily, I didn’t have any more siblings.