if you can't afford gas don't buy a fucking car

Having a car comes with many responsibilities beyond just the upfront cost of purchasing it. One of the biggest ongoing expenses is fuel, which can quickly add up, especially if you drive frequently or own a gas-guzzling vehicle. From personal experience, I found that budgeting for gas before buying a car helped me avoid financial strain and regret. In addition, car maintenance, insurance, and unexpected repairs are other costs that need to be factored in. When people ignore these expenses, they can end up with a car that they simply can’t afford to keep running smoothly. It’s better to choose a smaller, fuel-efficient vehicle or consider alternative transportation options if your budget is tight. The phrase captured in the image—"If they wanted to call you, they would..."—reminds me how important it is to prioritize what truly matters and avoid stretching yourself thin just to own a car. Being responsible with your finances by not buying a car you can’t afford to fuel is an empowering decision. It encourages financial stability and less stress in the long run. Ultimately, owning a vehicle should bring convenience and freedom, not worry about bills. Taking a moment to reassess your budgeting and prioritize necessary expenses, including gas, leads to smarter and more sustainable car ownership.