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“It’s making a weird noise”… Is your car trying to tell you something? The mental debate of whether to move on or not can rage for a long time. Know the signs you need a new car, make the decision easily.
Here are some signs you need a new car…
Sign 1: It’s about the driver, not the car…
Often, the choice to get a new car has a lot to do with the driver. Changing cars when there’s nothing physically wrong with it is a good position to be in. No repair bills and an easy trade in or sale. Here’s what we mean:
The size of your car doesn’t match your needs.
This often happens for one of two reasons:
1 – The small car from your younger days won’t accommodate a growing family.
2 – The opposite. The kids have bought their own cars and there are less passengers to transport.
If this is the predicament you find yourself in, it’s time for a new car.
Driving your car becomes more of a chore.
If you think back to when you first bought your current car, you probably looked forward to driving it. Naturally, that feeling wears off but if driving has become a chore that you prefer to avoid, it can be another sign. There’s too much road noise, it’s difficult to drive, you don’t have any modern features and you don’t feel confident in it.
If you don’t like your car, don’t let it get neglected. It’s time for a new car.
Sign 2: The numbers…
The numbers with dollar signs in front to be more specific. If your car is costing you more and more to service and maintain, it’s time to move on. Additionally, if your mechanic keeps telling you things like; “the brakes need doing next time” or “your water pump is on it’s way out”, it may end up costing you more than the value of the car itself. If you took out a car loan to purchase your current vehicle and still owe money on it, talk to a broker – they can find options to suit almost all circumstances.
Money is a big concern when buying and selling cars. Always compare car loans, shop around and do your research on the market prices for your current car and cars you might want to upgrade to.
The resale value is hurting.
If your car is getting older – in years and mileage – have a look online to see what similar examples are selling for. Unfortunately, you might be disappointed. As the odometer increases – especially over 100,000kms, the value of most cars drops considerably. Manufacturers bring out new models with new looks and features, older ones become less desirable.
Sign 3: The Technology is Outdated (or non-existent)…
Maybe you’ve decided your car’s not safe enough anymore. There are a lot of modern driver assist features like adaptive cruise control, auto-emergency braking and lane departure warning to name a few. If you’ve decided your car doesn’t meet modern standards, take it as a sign you need a new car.
Sign 4: It’s Talking to You…
Cars making funny noises are often trying to tell drivers they need repairs and replacements. If you’re hearing knocking, squealing, grinding or scraping – it’s a sign you need a new car or at least a trip to a mechanic.
It’s making weird smells too.
Often this is caused by excessive heat. For example, oil or hydraulic fluid leaking on a hot exhaust or moving parts scraping and rubbing causing friction. As weird smells get worse, smoke from the exhaust is often present – another sign it’s time to get into a new car.
Sign 5: Leaks
If those blobs and stains are increasing where you park your car, it’s another sign. Leaks can mean a number of things – cracked gaskets or frayed and damaged hoses for example. It’s these kinds of repairs that cost a lot in labour.
What’s the answer?
Simply ‘selling your current car and getting a new one’ is far easier said than done. If you know the signs, time should be on your side and you can get your ducks lined up. Check online and make sure you know all the signs it’s time to buy a new car, and what the cost will be. Decide whether to trade in or sell your current car…
Trade in.
Used car dealerships stay in business by making profit on the cars they acquire. Naturally, they’ll try to offer you as less as possible. If you trade your car in, be prepared for a low offer. Dealers might have to repair or a least, touch up your car in order to sell on to someone else.
Private sale.
Generally, if you fancy your negotiating skills, you’ll get a higher price by advertising your car online. Be prepared to have strangers come to your home to inspect the vehicle or alternatively, meet in a car park nearby. If you can wait for the right buyer and deal with strangers coming to ‘kick tyres’, you’ll likely be rewarded with more money.
Getting that new car…
If you’ve read the signs and decided it’s time for a new ride, have a look at all the options: car loans, makes and models, new features and take a few for a test drive. Can’t decide? Make a list of the features that match your driving style and lifestyle and go from there.
