I went car-free in the suburbs when my vehicle needed repairs. I'm happier and healthier, and wish I did it sooner.

• I chose to live car-free in suburban America after my car required expensive repairs.
• I learned that I really enjoyed walking to work, and soon, I tried biking. 
• I became happier and healthier, and I only wish I went car-free sooner. 

In early 2014, the clutch of my once-reliable Volkswagen started to stick. My hatchback had helped me survive a Los Angeles commute and a reporting job in the Gold Country foothills. But a decade of service had worn it down. Now it was struggling to change gears and screeched every time I put my foot on the brake.