Man Battles Family Drama Over Reclaiming Car Generously Lent to Mother-in-Law Who Refuses To Return It Because She Says She Needs It More

"I haven’t been able to use my car and anytime I bring up that I would like it back because I need a car, I get attacked because she needs it more."

Sophia

• Published in Interesting
• January 13, 2024

In the world of family dynamics, the relationship with a mother-in-law (MIL) can often be a tightrope walk, especially when it involves favors that stretch into entitlement. The Reddit story shared by OP encapsulates this delicate situation.

OP, having initially sold his car to his MIL for a mere dollar, later allowed her to borrow it again. This act of generosity, however, spiraled into a predicament where the MIL seemed to take the situation for granted, believing she had an indefinite right to the car.

Cars, in today's fast-paced life, are not just a luxury but a necessity. They represent independence and are crucial for managing day-to-day activities, more so for OP who plans to return to school.

The car's significance is amplified in OP's case, where his work and educational aspirations hinge on the need for personal transportation.

The issue with MILs, as highlighted in OP's story, arises when boundaries get blurred. What starts as a helping hand can often be misinterpreted as a perpetual right.

OP's predicament illustrates a common scenario where in-laws, often unintentionally, overstep boundaries, leading to familial tensions. It's a delicate balance to maintain—offering help while ensuring that generosity isn't mistaken for weakness.

Just take a look...

OP sold his old car for a dollar before moving. Now, his mother-in-law, prone to car troubles, uses it after his family's relocation.

OP helped her learn for a month. His wife suggested lending his car when hers was inactive.

OP still regularly maintains and pays for the car monthly. Used to joke about it but stopped due to sensitivities.

OP joked about trading food for car use, which unintentionally upset his MIL. It has been a year since she started using it, and OP needs the car when he goes back to school.

OP tries to ask for it back, but he gets attacked with resistance.

Feeling lost, OP's asking for advice online. Scroll down to see what people had to say...

Leave no room for negotiation, OP!

It's time for them to retrieve their car. Go on, initiate the grand reunion!

Well, that's funny...

Iconic scene!

It's their car, and they need it for school. Demanding it back is a power move.

If the wife's so keen, she can foot the car bill drama. Drive on, no free rides!

Reclaim the car. She can fix her own wheels.

OP already played car Santa for a year, covered the bills, even offered a repair lifeline. She treats it like a gift shop.

If she insists on keeping it, tell her the car payments come with the keys. Time for a co-driver in the payment lane!

"Let the mother and daughter sort it out among themselves."

In car years, that's like a century. Time for her car to finally hit the mechanic runway!

"You have a wife problem."

If she won't fix her own, suggest a new hobby: car rentals or Uber escapades!"

"You are not responsible for your MIL."

Time for him to reclaim or make her buy it like a car boss. Full price or remaining payments, it's his call.

In the end, lending a car to family is like giving a cat a saucer of milk; once you start, they expect it forever. OP's tale teaches us that sometimes, the road to family harmony is paved with good intentions and a spare set of car keys!

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Sophia