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Freeman Cebu Lifestyle

Why Car Clubs are worth joining

THE STARTER - Lord Seno - The Freeman

As "car guys," we sometimes have those moments when we scratch the back of our head over a car related problemn. Although the internet is a very useful tool in solving most of these problems, there are other things that need oldschool solutions.  One of that is joining a Car Club.

Joining a Car Club can make things a little bit easier. In most cases, the benefits can take you way beyond fixing something under the bonnet.

Some clubs are affiliated to vehicle manufacturers and dealers, while others are run by passionate car enthusiasts like Old School Cebu Inc.

Some are free to join and you can meet up and sign up with them in their regular meetings. Others, especially those with motoring events, may charge an annual membership fee.

So, what are the benefits of becoming a member of a Car Club?

1. Free motoring advice. Lots of clubs have online chat forums where you can post questions, share advices and tips.

If there's a major problem with your car, confirmation from a reliable member of the club can give you advice on cost of repair and avoid rip-offs from repair shops.  For smaller repairs, or for a part or accessory that you need for your car, any willing member can lead you to the supplier.  Jumping on the chatroom to ask fellow enthusiasts, who may have had their cars for years, can often help you solve the problem in no time.

The Toyota Auto Club of Cebu , for example, is an independent club for Toyota Lovers. It has Facebook forums covering everything from the regular meet-ups to technical things, accessories and club activities.

2. Links to cheaper parts and discounted repairs

 Joining a Car Club can open the door to good deals on all those car essentials such as registration services, affordable quality parts and reliable shops with discounted rates.

Those that charge you a small annual membership fee may still prove a good investment, as you can save money in the long run.

3. Free advice on upgrades and access to rare parts

Some members would want a bit of different look or touch to their cars.  If you've had your vehicle modified or changed in any way, you may need to talk to members who have done some mods too. 

This is where specialist owners' clubs like the SubaruClub of the Philippines come in. Through their Facebook page, you can chat amongst members about body kits, performance suspension, performance tuning and more.  There is a market place where you can post your unwanted parts or look for that elusive aftermarket gauge cluster, all linked to the Groups Facebook Page

4. Practice your social life

In some cases, you don't have to be an owner of a car to join a specific car club. If you're passionate and have enthusiasm for a particular brand or car, you can sign in.

Make sure to mingle with the enthusiast, learn the culture and always practice car club etiquette. Get those connections. You'll be fine.

Club members are also often invited to car related events and get discounted tickets on car movies like "Fast and the Furious."

5. Group holidays

Some clubs organize group holidays and tours like PACE(Performance and Classic Enthusiasts)

Drivers can visit places in Bohol and Negros. Clubs drive to their destinations with designated back-up/rescue vehicles.

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