Ditching your old car can feel like a bit of an ordeal. But if it has really reached the end of its serviceable life, you usually have no choice. You have to get rid of it.
But what are the signs you need to ditch your vehicle? When do you know it’s time to let it go?
When You’re On First-Name Terms With Your Mechanic
If you and your mechanic are good friends, it’s usually a sign it’s time to ditch your vehicle. Ideally, you don’t want to get to know them too well, so if they’re saved as a VIP on your phone, that usually indicates an issue and that the relationship has gone too far.
Repair Costs Are Exploding
At the same time, you may have an issue if repair costs are exploding for you. Sometimes, it just doesn’t make sense to keep a vehicle financially, even if you want to keep it on the road.
Usually, repair costs are issues for cars between 10 and 25 years old. These tend to be the most complicated and eat up the maximum amount of money.
Cars built before 2000 tend to be a little less expensive to run and repair., However, you run into the problem of having to use aftermarket parts to service them, which can be expensive.
It Fails On Grocery Runs
You might need to consider car scrap schemes in your area if your vehicle is failing on five-minute grocery runs. It usually means it has serious issues.
For example, if you’re constantly planning for breakdowns and taking things like food and emergency blankets with you for short trips, that’s a sign you don’t trust your car anymore.
It’s A Rolling Biohazard
Another sign you might want to get rid of your vehicle is if it has turned into a rolling biohazard. If you can smell things you can’t identify or see new stains pouring out and emerging all the time, then it could mean you have an issue. Even if it’s your cup holder causing problems, that’s annoying.
You Feel Fear Whenever You Turn The Key In The Ignition
You might also need to replace your vehicle pronto if you experience fear every time you turn the key in the ignition. You worry that it’s going to break down or let you down in some way.
It Burns More Oil Than Gas
Another sign is that your vehicle is burning more oil than gas. When engines operate inefficiently, they tend to burn through their lubrication quickly, putting them at risk of issues in the future. They are much more likely to emit tailpipe smoke and choke out everyone else on the road. They may even be accompanied by the smell of burning plastic.
Rust Is Structural
Lastly, you’ll need to replace your vehicle if the rust is structural. If it’s eaten through to the cabin, that’s a good sign that the vehicle is no longer safe. Rust on the frame and floorboards is a big no-no.
