Maintenance Mode...
There seems to be a whole debate between car people about modding vs. maintenance.
I've seemingly not learnt to hustle hard enough to afford my car passions in modern USA - regardless I got thrown in the maintenance aspect of it without choice. The modifications are less and the upkeep is much higher.
For automotive enthusiasts, the realm of cars offers a spectrum of possibilities, from keeping a vehicle running smoothly to transforming it into a personalized masterpiece. The intersection of car modding and maintenance is where passion and practicality collide, and finding the right balance between the two is crucial for a fulfilling automotive journey.
O U C H !
It is a not so-cool-feeling when you see your ride hop on a tow-truck and get hauled to a 'stealership'. One broken ABS-module and a hefty bill later she is back to life, menacing the neighbourhood with DSG-noises and intake wooshing!
During my upbringing I was taught that diligent care leads to prolonged longevity. Regrettably, this was not the case. Factors outside of my control caused this to get damaged, and stranded I was - thankfully my colleague was in town and I had a means of transportation for the necessary.
Goodbye K04. Hello same old-same old (but repaired).
F O C U S
After that ordeal, I was forced back to the drawing board. The rising inflation and generally bad world economy isn't really aiding my ventures.
Everything has turned into planning and, well. . . surviving.
Maintenance truly shows you care; right!?
At times it is hard to believe that your time turns to money, and you have to spend such a large amount of it on items that do not add to any form of power or aesthetic.
A few oil and oil filter changes, some new coil-packs, new spark plugs, brake light replacements, and some general care - I believe should all be part of the experience ;)
It purely just keeps things going.
I'm sure that I will get to making Zoë that perfect MK6 GTi I envision, alas it might just take a minute longer than I planned.
Sometimes it is just great to grab the camera, get in the car, and go out for a quick shoot, y'know!? (You probably don't, but that's okay, too)
Zoë makes for a great subject.
Easier said than done, maintaining hobbies are not just getting the items, or starting, but rather continually and gradually working on it.
My photography game has definitely stepped up a notch. Not that I am great in any form or way - yet ;)
This was one of the first shots I took with the new 30mm Sigma lens. I thoroughly understand why it is such a highly rated lens. It made it so easy to get better shots. And that creamy bokeh! More to come (:
R O A D T R I P
At least there is the not too distant memory of some road trips and generally just fun driving that make it worth while. These seem scarce and far between, but not distant enough to be forgotten. Another must ensue soon! ^_^
(Some things that would make road tripping better would undoubtably be some air. These H&R lowering springs are stiff, man! Kudos to them for the look they give, but I would very much like to "air-out for the peasants" and "sit-purdy" while enjoying somewhat of a softer ride. And how could I forget the rolling thunder of a nice punchy woofer. Don't worry, we'll get there.)
P R O G R E S S I O N
It's a good feeling to see other car enthusiast lean in to change.
Life happens, and seeing them not lose that spark for cars is great! Change doesn't always equal bad, sometimes it enables us to get the rear wheel drive wagon with a diesel, other times it compels us to upgrade to a four door twins V6 - no doubt stunning.
It is also great to see someone starting to get into modifying. One can almost sense the cogs turning in their minds as they envision how their ride starts to represent their character.
M A I N T E N A N C E
If maintenance is part of the journey, then that's the part of the story I am at right now. This plateau stasis seems long; non the less I am here to learn something. Even if it is just to reinstate my patience in the land of fastfood.
Dare I say maintenance isn't just a chore; it's a proactive approach to preserving the health and integrity of Zoë. Maintenance is a blend of art and science. While some tasks are straightforward, such as changing oil or replacing filters, others require a deeper understanding of the machine's intricate systems - I am thus exposed to learning.
In summation, maintenance isn't a duty; it's a declaration of respect for the road and the raw power that courses on it. For car enthusiasts, it's an opportunity to sculpt their rides into masterpieces that roar, purr, and glide with consistent precision. The art of car maintenance is the embodiment of the petrolhead spirit – a blend of dedication, craftsmanship, and the unrelenting pursuit of automotive nirvana.
F.Scarcella