America's Love Affair With New Cars

Why the love affair with cars?

Everyone knows that their new cars depreciate when they are driven off the car lot. Why then do so many people continue to spend thousands of their hard earned dollars on new vehicles?  The answer? It's America's love affair with their cars. We will do just about anything to get the car we want. Cars mean status and give us a place in society.

Personally, I do not see the big deal about cars. I drive a Honda Pilot SUV and it is a nice car. I enjoy the ride and so does my wife and children. But, if I could get out of my car payment for the same type of car, I would do it in a heartbeat.

Now, don't get me wrong. I love the smell of a new car. I enjoy the leather seats, sound systems and global navigation systems that 21st century cars have to offer. They're just so darn expensive.

Here are a few tips I can offer to break the love affair with cars:

- You can use the money to take a nice vacation.

- You can pay off debts.

- You can save for your retirement.

- You can donate more money to your favorite charity.

- You can buy a used car.

- You can eat at a favorite restaurant.

- You can start a business.

I know the love affair with cars will never end. Just keep in mind that when you have a car payment there are other bills that you could be paying.