Outraged Redditor Battles Freeloading Dad Who Constantly Takes Their Car For Joyrides, Yet Dodges Maintenance Costs
"My dad said there's no use in fighting him because he's my dad and can do whatever he wants."
Some families fight over money, some fight over chores, and this one apparently fights over keys. A 28-year-old Redditor is dealing with their dad constantly taking their car for “joyrides,” even though he does it without permission and then acts shocked when maintenance costs show up.
What makes it messy is that OP has already confronted him multiple times, but the car keeps going missing anyway. So now it is not just the boundary problem, it is the entitlement problem, because he refuses to pay for anything that keeps the car running while still treating it like his personal vehicle.
By the time the comments start rolling in, the whole thread is basically screaming the same thing: if he wants the car, he needs to start paying for it.
The story in detail
Reddit.comA little background
Reddit.comOP’s dad has been taking their car out without permission
Reddit.com
OP’s dad goes from “borrowing” the car to disappearing with it again, and the permission part keeps getting ignored.
The situation described highlights complex family dynamics often rooted in entitlement and boundary issues.
Family members frequently struggle to respect each other's autonomy, especially in situations where financial or emotional support is involved.
These patterns can be traced back to early family interactions, where roles and expectations are established but may not be openly discussed, leading to misunderstandings.
OP has confronted their dad several times, but their car keeps going missing
Reddit.com
Here’s how the Reddit community reacted to the story:
“Buy one of those steering wheel security locks.”
Reddit.com
OP might need to start parking their car away from home
Reddit.com
“Report it as stolen the next time he takes it.”
Reddit.com
“Start saving up your money, get all your important documents, and just f****** leave.”
Reddit.com
“You might want to install a hidden kill switch.”
Reddit.com
After OP has confronted him more than once and the car still vanishes, people immediately start suggesting locks, clubs, and even reporting it as stolen.
This is right up there with a dad demanding his son repay $12K after street racing totaled the car.
The funniest part, in the worst way, is that the dad keeps using the car while dodging every maintenance bill OP has to deal with.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Individuals should articulate their needs and limits openly with family members, which can involve having honest conversations about what is acceptable and what is not.
Additionally, developing assertiveness skills can empower individuals to stand firm in their boundaries while maintaining healthy relationships.
This Redditor has suggested that OP take the car to the manufacturer to get the engine re-keyed
Reddit.com
“Time to consider moving to school with your car.”
Reddit.com
“Either he pays for the maintenance and upkeep, or he leaves it alone.”
Reddit.com
Once commenters point out options like re-keying the engine or forcing OP to park somewhere safer, the family dinner energy turns into full-on car defense mode.
For example, saying 'I feel frustrated when my car is used without asking' can express needs without assigning blame.
This approach encourages dialogue rather than confrontation, which can help mend familial relationships over time.
“You can get a club for your steering wheel—or they make a similar device for the brake pedal.”
Reddit.com
The Reddit community is fuming at OP’s dad’s behavior. It’s one thing to refuse to contribute to repairing the car, but it’s worse that he keeps using it every single day without permission.
OP has been advised to get a steering wheel lock, among other devices, that will help them prevent anyone from taking the car without their consent. In addition, there have been calls for OP to report the car stolen, but this option might make the household a little tense.
We’d love to get your thoughts on this story. Join the conversation in the comments.
The clash between OP and their freeloading father highlights the complexities of family dynamics, particularly when financial responsibilities are unevenly distributed. Open communication is crucial in this case; discussing expectations around the use of the car could lead to a more equitable arrangement. By addressing these issues head-on, they could foster a healthier relationship that honors both OP's financial sacrifices and the father's responsibilities.
Nobody wants to pay for a car they did not authorize someone else to drive, and this dad is about to find out.
Before you repay anyone again, check out this AITA about parents who splurged on a luxury car instead of saving for retirement. Should I Cut Off Financial Support for Parents Who Splurged on Luxury Car Instead of Saving for Retirement?
