We get asked the question all the time from customers about when we recommend they get a new car. Everyone has their own opinion on this subject, but there are some practical considerations to make from cost, safety, performance and lifestyle perspectives. Here are a few of the main signs it could be time to make an investment in a new vehicle.
There isn’t a specific age in which a car begins to breakdown, but your starting point should be at about 15 years old. Some cars may start incurring costly maintenance fees earlier, while other cars could be reliable and efficient for much longer. One of the main reasons why a 15-year-old car is the time to start considering another vehicle is because many OEM’s will stop making parts for the vehicle. And you may not be able to find the part you need on the secondary market either, so you could come across a situation where the car simply can’t be safely repaired.
If your car starts stranding you different places by not starting or having engine performance issues, then it may be time to consider a new car from a safety perspective. With older cars, rust can become a safety issue as well if the framing begins to rust out. Brake linings and fuel lines can also get to a point where they aren’t safe and may be costly to replace. These points are where you have to trust your mechanic to make the best recommendation from a safety and performance perspective, then you can determine whether repairs are within your budget.
Many times people simply outgrow their vehicle. Life can change drastically over the course of 5-10 years or more. What was once a solid vehicle for you and your spouse isn’t suitable for adding children, pets or packing up to go on a long trip. When your car doesn’t fit your lifestyle anymore, it’s probably time to look into upgrading.
At DeBoer’s Auto, we promise to always be honest with you when it comes to your car’s health. The majority of the vehicles we see can be repaired, but the cost of the repairs vary significantly. When a vehicle is a bit older, we will always confirm with you that you wish to proceed with the repair before we invest in it. For more questions and answers about anything related to your vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.