I have an older car (1997 Ford Mustang V6), with a little over 120,000 miles on the odometer. I own title to the car outright, having paid it off in August of 2005. I still like the car, but it is getting old enough now as to where problems are starting to accumulate with it. It needs cosmetic stuff--a new paint job, etc., but it also needs mechanical work. I know for sure for instance that something is wrong with the cooling system--thermostat, radiator, water pump, or something. How long can I realistically expect the engine and/or transmission to hold up? Should I have compression tests or such done on the motor? Or assuming I plan to hold onto this (already old) car for five or more years, should I just up and have a remanufactured engine put in?
Ultimately it all boils down to personal decisions regarding the car, but what are your suggestions as to why I should hold onto this Mustang, or get another car (which would have payments, unknowns, and so forth).
2006-07-05 09:47:00 · 4 answers · asked by MICHAEL D 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Buying & Selling
Have the car checked by a qualified mechanic, to see what the actual problem are. It is doubtful that you need to replace the engine, seeing as it does not have extremely high mileage for the year. If a vehicle is properly maintained, it is not unreasonable to expect 180,000 miles or more, without major problems.
Consider the cost of repairs to this car, and compare that to the cost of replacing the vehicle.
If spending $1800 will get the car into good shape, and allow you to drive it for another year and a half (just for an example) the repair cost is $100 per month. To replace the car, you would be making car payments. Assume that the payment is $250 per month. In this case, you save $150 per month by keeping the old car.
If you like the car, keep it. I would not replace the engine or transmission unless there was a problem with them.
2006-07-05 10:07:57 · answer #1 · answered by fire4511 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take it to a garage for an m.o.t. They will give you expert advice if you would be better to keep it or part exchange on a newer model. If you think you could take a chance and hold on for another five years than do so. enquire at the garage about installing an engine. When you buy a new car ,you are taking on payments for a good number of years. Why not save up now and keep your car for a while longer until you are in a better position to buy another.
2006-07-05 17:01:56 · answer #2 · answered by Claddagh 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, i think old is gold, some time old car giving good mileage or have a solid body in compare of a new one. A new car have some down quality but old one is better then it in few conditions. So you can keep it with but send it to garage for maintenance or service or go for a long drive once in a week. It will be helpful for you to keep it as new as long you will work on it.
Source: fastcashforjunkcars(dot)com
2013-10-22 01:19:42 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you don't have the skills to diagnose and fix the problems, then you're gonna spend a fortune on professionals.
If it was me, I'd put that money into a car that's reliable.
2006-07-11 23:57:30 · answer #4 · answered by Privratnik 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋