While it is possible to keep even a well-maintained vehicle on the road for hundreds of thousands of miles, it’s important to consider when it is time for an upgrade. From weird noises to escalating repair costs, there are several signs that it’s time for a new car.
Purchasing a vehicle is a big investment and should be taken very seriously. However, with a few signs to look out for, the decision can be made easier.
1. You’re Tired of Worrying About Breakdowns
If you’re always worrying about your car breaking down, it might be time to consider a new one. Frequent breakdowns can be expensive and frustrating, especially if they occur on the road.
Another sign that you need to get a new car is if your vehicle’s warning lights are constantly turning on. These lights could indicate that there is a problem with the engine or other parts of your vehicle.
Also, if you’re finding that it’s becoming difficult to find replacement parts for your current car, this could be a sign that it’s time to invest in a new one. This will save you money in the long run. Eventually, you’ll want to sell your old car and use the proceeds toward your next one.
2. You’re Tired of Paying High Insurance Premiums
It’s no secret that cars can be expensive to own. They’re not just costly to buy and repair, but they also cost a lot in annual insurance premiums.
If you find that your car’s insurance premiums are constantly creeping up, it may be time to trade it in or get a new one altogether. You can avoid high premiums by maintaining a good credit score and driving less, if possible.
If you can’t reduce your driving, try downsizing to a smaller vehicle. For instance, a crossover will cost about \$500 less every year to insure than an SUV, according to ValuePenguin. This can help you save on premiums as well as on fuel costs and maintenance.
3. You’re Tired of Paying High Maintenance Costs
Keeping up with car repairs can be a costly affair, especially if you have to deal with an unexpected issue. If your vehicle is constantly developing faults and you’re seeing your repair bills escalating, it might be time to consider upgrading.
It can also be a sign that your car is reaching the end of its life. If you’re not getting as much pleasure out of driving it anymore, or if you feel safer in a newer car with modern safety features, then perhaps it’s time to invest in a new ride.
Even if your car isn’t particularly old, if it’s become harder to get parts for it, it could be time to consider selling it online or moving over to a vehicle subscription service.
4. You’re Tired of Having to Wait for Repairs
Buying a new car can be expensive. However, you can offset some of these costs by selling your current vehicle. If you find yourself constantly rigging stop-gap fixes for your vehicle to keep it running, then it may be time to consider an upgrade.
If your car is starting to rust and the interior is falling apart, then it’s probably time to replace it. This is not a good look for your car, and it will likely cost you a lot of money in the long run.
Also, if you’re having trouble passing your inspection sticker each year, it might be time to think about upgrading your ride. A change in lifestyle, like a new baby or a new commute, could mean that your old vehicle is no longer the best fit for you.
5. You’re Tired of Having to Worry About Your Safety
If you find yourself constantly worrying about your car’s safety, it might be time to start shopping around for a new one. Safety features like airbags, backup cameras and blind spot detection are a must-have in modern vehicles.
If your car has stopped passing emissions tests, or you’re starting to notice strange smells coming from it, this is another sign that it’s time for a change. Older cars can emit a lot of pollutants into the air, which can be harmful to your health.
Even if your car still feels safe to drive, it’s never worth taking the risk of getting into an accident. You and your passengers deserve a vehicle that will keep you and them safe on the road. With so many newer cars featuring safety technology, this is no longer a problem.
