Vehicles are a significant investment worth many years of usage and functionality. Many people love to note that you should drive a car for as long you can to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Unfortunately, these assets do not last forever.
If you intend to drive those four wheels to the ground, there are many reasons to argue against it. Here are five signs from the universe indicating it’s time for a new car.
Breakdowns Are More Common
While breakdowns aren’t inevitable, your vehicle should be able to withstand long drives without breaking down. You must always keep up with your car’s scheduled maintenance. But, if you’re getting to a point where it needs radiator replacement, new exhaust systems, and a new engine, it’s time to let it go.
Spending More on Gas
The older your vehicle is, the less fuel-efficient it will be, and this will result in more consumption. You might save costs on your car if you’re no longer making payments on it, but that doesn’t take away from the amount of gas it guzzles.
If you find yourself filling an empty tank more than twice a week, you might be losing more money than you’re saving.
Significant Life Changes
Some vehicles are best fit for different stages in life. For example, a small, compact sedan is a fantastic choice if you’re single—but if you decide to get married and then, perhaps, decide you also want kids, a small car will begin to pose problems.
Imagine trying to accommodate more than one car seat in the back of a Scion iA. It would be pretty difficult. No one wants to drive a family around in a cramped car. So, when you decide to get a new car, consider the big changes in your life and how they’ll affect your purchase.
Becomes Unsafe To Operate
Older vehicle models can become unreliable and pose a safety threat. Newer makes have advanced features such as rearview cameras, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision alert. While they might sound fancy, all these functions prioritize your safety on the road; with their aid, you won’t feel uneasy when you’re driving.
Repairs Cost More Than Its Current Worth
Vehicle repairs are necessary when owning a vehicle. However, there comes a time when the repair can cost more than the car’s actual value. For example, if you need to spend $2,000 on an engine repair, yet your vehicle is currently worth $1,500, you might want to toss in the towel and send your car in for scrap usage.
If only your car could last. While you take preventive measures to extend the lifespan of your vehicle, sometimes you’ll see the inevitable signs from the universe telling you it’s time for a new car. These telltale indicators are worth paying attention to, especially when ensuring safety.