Knowing When To Repair Or Replace Your Car

Car wear and tear is inevitable, and we are here to help. Knowing when to replace or repair a car is critical when budgeting in the modern age.

Car trouble. Sooner or later it happens to everyone. Sometimes it started with a noise, like a mysterious rattle or click. While other times your car might simply stop running or refuse to start. Whatever the problem is, you are likely going to face the decision to repair or replace car.

In this article we take a look at a few things every car owner should keep in mind when the time comes to make this tough decision. Read on to find out how to know what’s best for you.

Diagnosing the Damage

The first thing you’ll need to do is find out exactly what the problem is. Have a mechanic look at it.

Or if you have enough mechanical know-how to diagnose the issue yourself, see how severe the damage is and determine if you think it’s even worth considering a repair.

How Much Will Repairs Cost?

Let’s assume for the moment that your mechanic determines that the problem is definitely fixable. The key here is determine how much you’d be out of pocket if you gave them the go-ahead to start working on it.

Keep in mind that mechanics have a way of find more problems once they start digging in and looking around. Thus the cost of repairs could quickly escalate and end up costing far more than the original estimate.

What are Your Currently Monthly Maintenance Costs?

Now it’s time to sit down with a pen and paper and crunch some numbers. Take a look at your finances. Aside from things such as regular oil changes, replacing filters, and rotating tires, what other maintenance costs do you budget for?

Will a Repair Be a Short-Term Fix?

We recommend having a heart-to-heart conversation with your mechanic. If the overall condition of the car is good, the repair might give it several more years on the road. And depending on the cost of the repairs, that could be a bargain compared to the price of a new car.

If you’re interested in making car repairs yourself, consider using an engine load leveler to help get the job done right.

How Much Car Payment Can You Afford?

Depending on the cost of repairs, it might be time to start looking for a replacement.

Crunch some more numbers and be honest with yourself about what you can afford. Try to keep in mind that the additional monthly expense might end up being less than increasingly expensive future repairs.

How Much Do You Value Peace of Mind?

Most of us spend a great deal of time in our cars. You drive to work, take the kids to school and other activities, and depend on reliable transportation to get from point A to point B on a daily basis. Consider the stress of another potential breakdown, and then ask yourself how much peace of mind is worth to you. 

Knowing When to Repair or Replace Car

Owning a car is expensive. Unfortunately, it’s hard to get through life without one. So the next time you have car trouble, you’ll end up having to decide whether to repair or replace car.

When it comes time to make that decision, the information in this article will help make that choice a little easier.

Click here to see the cost advantages of buying a used car vs new car.