As summer ends, many families are preparing for an increase in the time they spend on the road. Between school drop-offs, extracurricular activities, sports practices, work commutes, and weekend events, your car is one of the most important tools in your daily routine. Before the school year begins, it's worth asking yourself a few important questions before getting behind the wheel.

Is my vehicle ready for the demands of the month ahead?

The start of a new school year is a perfect opportunity to assess your vehicle's condition before your schedule fills up.

A basic vehicle inspection should include:

• Checking brakes, tires, lights (headlights and taillights), blinkers, and windshield wipers.
• Checking fluid levels, such as windshield washer, brake, power steering, and transmission fluids.
• Testing the battery, especially if it's more than three years old.
• Inspecting belts and hoses for signs of wear.
• Replacing dirty engine and cabin air filters.
• Confirming that your roadside emergency kit is stocked and up to date.

Many of these items can be checked at home or inspected by a qualified mechanic, typically for $50 to $150. Addressing minor maintenance issues early can help prevent more costly repairs down the road and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Is my current vehicle still the right size for my family’s needs?

Families change, and transportation needs change with them. The compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) or sedan that worked perfectly a few years ago may feel much smaller than it once did.

Consider how your vehicle fits your current lifestyle:

• Is there enough room for growing children?
• Can everyone sit comfortably on longer trips?
• Can you regularly transport family, friends, sports gear, musical instruments, strollers, or other bulky items with ease?
• Are you frequently wishing you had more cargo space for future needs?

If loading the car feels like solving a puzzle every morning, it may be worth considering whether your current vehicle still meets your family's needs.

Is it time for an upgrade?

Some families may find that their current vehicle no longer fits their needs. If repair costs are beginning to add up or your transportation needs have changed, replacing your vehicle may actually be the more economical long-term choice.

Timing can work in your favor, too. For families considering an upgrade, the back-to-school season can be one of the more advantageous times of year to shop.

As new model-year vehicles begin arriving at dealerships in late summer and early fall, dealers are often motivated to move remaining inventory from the current model year. This can create opportunities for buyers to find attractive pricing, incentives, and discounts on vehicles that are still brand new. Popular family-friendly vehicle options include sedans, SUVs, crossovers, and minivans.

Can I afford a vehicle upgrade?

If a new vehicle is on your horizon, securing financing before visiting the dealership can help simplify the buying process and strengthen your negotiating position.

MSGCU currently offers a 3.99%% APR^* promotional auto loan rate for 36 months, providing qualified borrowers with an opportunity to finance a vehicle at a highly competitive rate.

In addition to competitive rates, MSGCU financing options provide:

• Convenient pre-approval options.
• Flexible loan terms.
• Personalized guidance throughout the process.
• Great low auto insurance rates offered through MSGCU’s partnerships with Members Home and Auto^†, and TruStage^{^}, which can help you to save on your premiums.
• Local Michigan-based service from professionals focused on your financial well-being.

If you're looking for ways to lower your monthly payment or save on interest, MSGCU also offers auto loan refinancing options. Refinancing your existing auto loan may help you secure a more competitive rate, reduce your payment, or better align your loan terms with your current financial goals.

Knowing your financing options ahead of time can make vehicle shopping less stressful and help you stay within your budget.

Start the school year with confidence

A reliable vehicle helps keep busy families moving. Whether your current vehicle simply needs a little maintenance, or you're ready to upgrade to something that better fits your family's changing needs, now is an excellent time to evaluate your options.

MSGCU can guide you through your auto loan options and help you get into a vehicle that’s a great fit for your family’s needs. Call, video bank, or make an appointment at any one of our 24 branches to get started.

^*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Offer requires Automatic Loan Payment transfer. Loan terms up to 84 months, depending on model year. APR may be higher, based on term of loan, credit score, collateral, and loan to value. New money only. Rates are subject to change at any time. Same-day approval on most vehicle applications. Review complete rates and terms.

^†APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Offer requires Automatic Loan Payment transfer. Loan terms up to 84 months, depending on model year. APR may be higher, based on term of loan, credit score, collateral, and loan to value. New money only. Rates are subject to change at any time. Same-day approval on most vehicle applications. Review complete rates and terms.

^{^}Auto and Home Insurance Products are issued by leading insurance companies. The insurance offered is not a deposit, and is not federally insured, sold, or guaranteed by any financial institution. Product and features may vary and not be available in all states.^©TruStage

Category: Vehicle