I have a 2001 Saturn SL2 that I bought in June it's been nothing but a headache. Recently I thought about trading it in because of all the money I've put in it. Outside of a tune up and two oil changes, I've gotten a new starter and a new water pump (more than 800 on everything) and the service engine light is back on. Also the first time I washed the car, the paint on the hood started to chip off (and little pieces are still coming off) I'm thinking I should trade it in soon because it's getting cold and I need a dependable car since I drive more than 100 miles a week just going to college and back for the two days that I have to be on campus. I don't want it break down on me and I don't know if I should invest anymore money in it. My mom says pay it off first because I still owe $4000 on it but my safety is a big concern for me. What do you guys think? I've put more than 6,000 miles on this car in only 6 months but I did take one big road trip (about 300 miles).
2007-10-30 06:33:47 · 3 answers · asked by aric_714 4 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Buying & Selling
Sounds to me like you've already made up your mind in getting rid of the car, you just need a really good justification for doing so. Look, once cars aren't "dependable" anymore, it's too much of a headache to maintain. And Saturn, my friend, isn't a brand I'd call exactly reputable.
Although you owe $4K on your vehicle, you'll be probably dumping another grand or two just in upkeep. Especially since you do a lot of commuting. Who knows what could go next. Your radiator? If that goes....you're bummed. I would try to sell your car private party first, maybe also list it on ebay or craig's list. If that doesn't work, go to your local dealership and see what they can do for you. There's lot of good deals on new cars with low APR if you have good credit. But, don't let them run your credit. First come up with a number that you'd like to purchase the vehicle for, and see what they'll give you for your trade in. Yes you'll have negative equity, but you can work with that number later. Shop around. There's always great deals. Plus, dealerships are biting for sales because they're heading into the slow sales season because of the holidays. They'll naturally low ball you and give you nothing for your trade because you still owe much on it, but just bite the bullet. Who wants to drive around a lemon? Roll the negative equity of your vehicle into your other loan on a new or dependable used car. You'll at least have a dependable car that you like and can trust. My personal preference....go with a Toyota Solara or Honda for gas mileage. But I'm a chevy person through and through. Good luck!
2007-10-30 06:49:33 · answer #1 · answered by foxsuite 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I did some research for you. I guessed your car was in fair condition and had 80,000mi on it. It had a trade in value of $3,175.00. If it was in perfect condition it is worth the $4k that you owe. If you sell it outright you may be able to get what you owe on it. I would spend an afternoon cleaning it up, wash, wax, vacuum, dress the tires etc. and bring it to the dealership and see what they will do for you. It won't hurt to try. Weigh your options carefully. You may have repaired all that needs repairing and be good for a while, you may have bought one of those cars that likes to break down.
2007-11-01 11:24:36 · answer #2 · answered by kreech24 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's up to you, how much money you are willing to spend. If you don't feel safe in it, you'd be buying peace of mind by getting something more like a Honda Civic or something like that.
2007-10-30 06:37:25 · answer #3 · answered by Flatpaw 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋