As long as you maintain it regularly and make repairs when needed, a good vehicle can serve you and your family for years or even decades. However, every car eventually experiences so much wear that it becomes difficult to operate. Here are some of the most common signs that you should trade in your old car for a newer model with better features and more power.
1. You Need Repairs Often
No matter how new your ride is, you’ll always need regular maintenance and some occasional repair. However, when problems become more frequent and severe, it could be a sign that your vehicle is reaching the end of its life. Having to get constant repairs is annoying and inconvenient, and the costs for replacing important components such as the transmission often exceeds the value of an older car, truck, or SUV. Instead of dealing with constant issues and worrying about whether you can make it to your next destination without a breakdown, use the money you would otherwise spend on repairs to invest in a newer vehicle.
2. Fuel Efficiency Drops
If you notice that your visits to the gas pump are becoming more and more frequent, it may be a sign that your engine’s efficiency is falling. At first, the increase in cost may seem small, but those dollars and cents can pile up quickly over time. The drop in efficiency could be from a relatively minor issue like a dirty fuel injector, or you could have a more severe problem. You should get your car inspected by a professional to find out how much repairs will cost.
Since newer vehicles are much more efficient than the options available a few years ago, replacing your car will make your fuel costs lower than ever. Using an efficient hybrid or electric vehicle can reduce your transportation costs most over time.
3. Your Vehicle Becomes Unsafe
If your car’s axles become unstable, your engine’s pistons knock loudly and frequently, or your belt system is wearing out belts regularly, you could have an issue that risks the safety of you and your passengers. Unstable axles can lead to a lost wheel or a broken axle, causing a serious accident. Replacing belts can often get expensive quickly, and you could get into a wreck if a belt snaps while you’re moving down a highway.
Engine pistons that knock loudly often signal an upcoming engine failure. If you start hearing strange noises, have your vehicle checked by an expert. You could also notice a burning smell from excess friction on your belts, an engine that’s too hot, or faulty wiring. Your vehicle’s electronics could stop working, and you could even have to deal with a fire near the engine.
These risks often mean that insuring an older vehicle is more expensive than insuring a newer car. Many insurance companies also give discounts for safety and driver assistance features such as lane-keeping assistance, blind spot warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking.
When it’s time to trade in your old vehicle, head to Rath Auto Services. Their experienced staff will guide you through their impressive inventory and help you find your ideal vehicle.
Image via RathAuto.com
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