B&B chapter 4: Buying a car and driving in STL: a perspective of WashU postdocs
- Let’s start with a little background: when did you get a driver’s license (after how much time after moving to St Louis, and how recently), when did you buy a car and from where? What was your motivation to get a car?
This panel discussion features postdocs from WashU, all of whom have obtained Missouri driver’s licenses and purchased cars in St. Louis. While their research areas vary across departments like Chemistry, Neurology, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Nephrology, their experiences navigating car ownership in St. Louis share some common themes such as the importance of budget, the impact of lifestyle on car choices, and the challenges of navigating the car-buying process.
- Ray Yang (Chemistry): Obtained his license within a month of arriving and purchased a car a year later. He initially relied on public transport and cycling but found car ownership essential for greater freedom and convenience.
- Rishabh Bajpai (Neurology): Received his license after about a year and immediately began car shopping. He prioritized independence and the ability to assist friends without vehicles.
- Poornima Dilhani Ekanayake (Nephrology): Initially relied on her husband’s international driver’s license. They purchased a car after a year when they moved to the suburbs, making car ownership necessary for their growing family.
- Shweta (Obstetrics & Gynecology) and Mayank Bhagwat: Obtained their licenses within a few months and purchased a car immediately. The need to transport their child to school while accommodating their work schedules necessitated car ownership.
- How was your experience of obtaining a driver’s permit and clearing the driving test to get a driver’s license? How did you prepare for both?
Panelists shared their experiences with obtaining a Missouri driver’s license.
The key highlights of the initial experience by panelists included
- International driver’s licenses: Some individuals initially relied on their international driver’s licenses, which are valid for a limited time.
- Driving tests: The driving test experience varied, with some finding it relatively straightforward.
Written Test Preparation:
- Self-study: Most panelists prepared for the written test independently using the official Missouri driver’s manual and online resources like mock exams and practice tests.
- Key resources: The DMV guidebook (https://dor.mo.gov/forms/Driver%20Guide.pdf), online mock exams, and dedicated phone apps were highly recommended for studying.
- Test format: The written test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions, and a passing score is typically above 80%.
Driving Test Preparation:
- Practical experience: Ray Yang, having driven for over 10 years in his home country, found the driving test relatively easy.
- Driving lessons: Some panelists, like Rishabh Bajpai, benefited from informal driving lessons from friends.
- Familiarization with US driving rules:
- Driving on the right side of the road was a significant adjustment for those accustomed to driving on the left.
- Understanding the concept of yielding to traffic with flashing yellow lights was crucial.
- Practice driving maneuvers in a safe and controlled environment, such as an empty parking lot.
- Parallel parking: This was identified as a specific area of focus, as it is a key component of the driving test in Missouri.
Tips for Success:
- Practice, practice, practice: Thoroughly reviewing the driver’s manual and practicing online tests are essential.
- Familiarize yourself with Missouri driving rules: Pay close attention to rules specific to the US, such as yielding to traffic.
- Practice parallel parking: This skill is often challenging for international drivers.
- Utilize online resources: YouTube videos showcasing mock driving test process can be helpful.
Overall, while the driving test process may present some challenges, particularly for those unfamiliar with US driving rules and practices, thorough preparation and a focus on key areas like parallel parking can significantly increase the chances of success.
- Once you decided to get a car, how did you choose which car to buy (the company, dealership/agent and model)? What factors contributed the most in choosing the car?
In this section, panelists provide valuable insights into the car-buying process for international researchers in St. Louis, highlighting the importance of careful research, consideration of various factors, and a focus on long-term value.
Factors influencing car selection:
- Reliability: This was a top priority for all panelists. They favored brands like Subaru, Honda, and Toyota for their reputation for reliability and lower maintenance costs.
- Budget: Budget constraints were a major factor for all. Panelists explored options like certified pre-owned vehicles, negotiated prices with dealerships, and considered the long-term costs of ownership (insurance, maintenance).
- Lifestyle and needs:
- Ray Yang prioritized space to accommodate his bicycles.
- Rishabh Bajpai needed a car for occasional use, so fuel efficiency and size were less critical.
- Poornima Dilhani Ekanayake, with a growing family, prioritized safety and space, opting for an SUV.
- Research and due diligence:
- Panelists conducted thorough research online, compared prices, and negotiated with dealerships.
- They emphasized the importance of checking the car’s history (e.g., Carfax reports) and avoiding private sales (like those on Facebook Marketplace) to minimize risks.
Tips shared by panelists for car buyers:
- Consider your budget realistically: Factor in insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs.
- Prioritize reliability: Research brands and models known for their dependability.
- Check the car’s history: Obtain a Carfax report to assess the vehicle’s history and condition.
- Avoid private sales: Purchase from reputable dealerships or trusted sources to minimize risks.
- Negotiate prices: Don’t hesitate to negotiate with dealerships to get the best deal.
- Consider your lifestyle and needs: Choose a car that suits your daily driving requirements and family size.
- How was your experience with the actual purchase, loan processing, registration etc.? Are there any key points you would like people to be aware of about this process?
Next, we discussed the panelists’ experiences with the car purchase process, including loan processing, registration, and key considerations. Here’s a summary:
Key Considerations:
- Financing:
- Credit history: Building credit history in the US is crucial for securing favorable loan terms.
- Interest rates: Interest rates vary significantly based on credit history and the age and condition of the vehicle.
- Loan options: Explore options from different lenders, including those offered by the dealership and external banks.
- Refinancing: Consider refinancing the loan if you find a better interest rate later.
- Registration:
- Timeliness: Register the vehicle within the designated timeframe to avoid penalties.
- Fees: Be prepared to pay sales tax, registration fees, and potential property taxes.
- Car inspection: Have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase to identify any potential issues.
- Negotiation: Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price with the dealership. Research the vehicle’s value (using resources like Kelley Blue Book) to inform your negotiations.
- Consideration of leasing: Leasing can be a viable option for those staying in the US for a shorter period.
“From Bargain to Burden: The True Cost of a Used Car”
A fellow postdoc bought a used car from a friend. Her “bargain” car turned into a money pit. The initial low price was tempting, but she didn’t foresee the constant repairs. Between a busted radiator and a snapped timing belt, the unexpected costs piled up fast. Plus, the car’s age and condition meant higher insurance premiums than she’d budgeted for. In the end, this so-called deal cost her more in upkeep than a slightly pricier, but dependable, car would have.
“A Cautionary Tale for Postdocs: The Perils of Private Car Sales”
This anecdote serves as a stark reminder of the potential pitfalls of purchasing a used car from an individual seller. A fellow postdoc (not among the panelists) in WashU recently encountered a series of unfortunate events after buying a car from Facebook Marketplace.
- The Title Trouble: During the loan processing, a bank official inadvertently invalidated the car title by altering the seller’s signature.
- Seller’s Deception: The seller then refused to cooperate in obtaining a new title, demanding more money and later citing ownership disputes with his wife.
- Legal Ramifications: This resulted in the postdoc facing legal issues due to an expired temporary license plate and necessitated filing a small claims court case.
Key Takeaways:
- Prioritize Dealer Purchases: Whenever possible, purchase used cars from reputable dealerships. This minimizes the risk of encountering unforeseen complications with titles and ownership.
- Utilize Secure Payment Methods: Always pay by certified check or electronic transfer to ensure a clear payment trail and minimize disputes.
- Thoroughly research the seller and the vehicle before making a purchase.
- How do you maintain your car? What particular care do you take to keep it in great shape? What are the monthly costs associated with maintaining a car?
Next, panelists discussed their experiences with car maintenance and driving in St. Louis. Here are some key takeaways:
Car Maintenance:
- Regular maintenance:
- Regular oil changes and checkups are crucial for maintaining the car’s health and longevity.
- Costs vary (around $50-100 on average) depending on the car’s age and the extent of the service.
- Insurance:
- Insurance costs vary based on factors like driving history, age, and the type of vehicle.
- Shopping around for quotes from different insurers is recommended.
- Comprehensive insurance is crucial to cover potential damages from accidents or theft.
- Unexpected costs: Be prepared for unexpected expenses like repairs to components like the catalytic converter.
Driving in St. Louis:
- Generally safe and accommodating: Drivers in St. Louis are generally considered to be courteous and accommodating.
- Traffic: Traffic congestion is generally moderate, with some exceptions during peak hours.
- Road conditions: Be aware of potholes and other road hazards.
- Safety:
- Pay attention to traffic signals, especially the “no right turn on red” signs.
- Be cautious of other drivers and defensive driving techniques are essential.
Overall, the panelists emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, responsible driving habits, and comprehensive insurance coverage for a safe and enjoyable driving experience in St. Louis.
- Now that you have had your car for a while, what advice would you give about this process to an incoming postdoc?
Panelists share valuable advice for incoming postdoctoral researchers in St. Louis, particularly regarding car ownership. Here’s a summary:
Car Ownership:
- Thorough research:
- Carefully research car models, dealerships, and financing options before making a purchase.
- Consider your budget, lifestyle, and long-term needs.
- Financial planning:
- Buying a car is a significant financial commitment.
- Factor in all associated costs, including insurance, maintenance, and potential repairs.
- Consider leasing as an alternative to buying, especially if you plan to stay in St. Louis for a short duration.
- Prioritize safety:
- Practice defensive driving and prioritize safety over speed.
- Obtain comprehensive insurance coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle.
Driving in St. Louis:
- Be aware of road conditions: Watch out for potholes and other road hazards.
- Be courteous to other drivers:
- Be patient and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.
- Follow traffic rules and be mindful of other vehicles.
(Written with the help of the Gemini AI tool, organized by Dr. Sumedha Agashe)