How to Protect a Station Wagon

When you purchase a new station wagon for your family you make a great investment. A station wagon fits your whole family comfortably and gets excellent gas mileage, unlike minivans and SUVs. Follow these steps to learn how to protect your new station wagon.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Obtain insurance. Auto insurance is essential in protecting your new station wagon. If you get in an accident your insurance will pay to fix your car and make it look as good as new.

2. Purchase an extended warranty. You will feel more confident in your purchase if you know that your station wagon will be able to get all of its required maintenance and repairs for only a small deductible.

3. Use a car cover if you don't park your station wagon in the garage. UV rays and rain can damage your station wagon's fabulous paint job. Using a waterproof car cover will keep your car clean and adds an extra layer of cushion against scratches and dents.

4. Install an alarm system to protect your station wagon from theft. Some insurance companies will give you a discount for having an anti-theft device. If you can't afford an alarm system than at least get a Club or other steering wheel locking device.

5. Feel confident in knowing that station wagons aren't stolen as often as more high-profile cars. Since station wagons weren't built for speed, a teenager will rarely steal one to go cruising around.

Tips & Warnings

• Never hide a spare key anywhere on your station wagon, thieves know where to look to find a key to a car.
• Never leave your station wagon running when you go into a store, a lot of insurance companies won't pay for your car if it's stolen with the keys in the ignition.
• Avoid parking under trees; tree sap will damage your car's paint job. If you have to park under a tree, use a car cover to protect your car's paint job.