How do I know when it’s time to replace my car?
Everyone wishes their car would last forever, especially since buying a new one can cost a significant amount of money. However, with the average car only lasting around 12 years, at some point, you will need to replace your vehicle. If you’re thinking to yourself “How do I know when it’s time to replace my car?”, read on. Here are some big signs your car has reached the end of its life.
Your car requires major repairs regularly
One of the biggest indications that your car hasn’t got long left is if it’s spending more and more of its time in your local garage. Whilst every car will need repairs at some stage, it’s not normal for a vehicle to need fixing regularly. If your car is in and out of the garage frequently, alarm bells should be ringing loudly.
If your car needs repairing, you need to weigh up the costs of getting it fixed against its value. Should the repairs cost more than the car is actually worth, it may be worth replacing it. Buying a new car is likely to be more cost-effective in the long run. If you need car repairs in Barnsley or Wombwell, look no further than Wyatt’s Auto Services on Mitchells Industrial Park.
Your car has failed its MOT more than once
Many motorists dread their car’s annual MOT. Waiting to find out of your vehicle has passed or you’ll need to pay for expensive repairs can be nerve-wracking. So, if your car has failed this important test more than once, it’s a good sign that your car may not have much life left. When an MOT indicates a problem with your car, it will be recorded as a minor, a major, or a dangerous fault.
You won’t be able to drive your car until the issue is fixed, which could potentially leave you without transport for extended periods of time. Therefore, not only are you faced with the steep costs of repairing your car after each failed MOT, but it can also have a big impact on your daily life. If your car is failing its MOT routinely, it may be time to say goodbye once and for all.
Your car constantly needs refuelling
A car that needs refuelling all the time may well be on its last legs. If you’re all noticing a reduction in its power and acceleration, the cause might be a faulty fuel pump. Since fixing a fuel pump can cost several hundreds of pounds, many people replace their vehicle at this point. Newer cars generally have better fuel efficiency too, which means that you won’t need to visit the petrol station nearly as much.
Your car insurance costs are increasing
As your car ages, the more likely it becomes to break down. As such, your car insurance provider may begin to see your vehicle as a liability and will raise your premium. Whilst you might not see paying more for your cover as a big enough reason to replace your car, it’s an added cost on top of rising repair bills and constant refuelling. Ultimately, your car is becoming increasingly expensive over time. If you trade your car in for a newer model, you won’t need to worry as much about the cost of your bills.
Your car doesn’t feel safe
If safety has become a concern when driving your car, it may be nearing the end of its life. The safety features are likely to have become outdated over time, meaning that you’re not as safe as you could be in a newer car. Modern cars are fitted with a range of safety features, from auto braking to collision warning systems. If your car simply doesn’t measure up in comparison, you may choose to trade it in. You should never feel concerned about your safety when driving a car. Not only do you need to think about your own safety, but your passengers and other road users too.
Your car no longer meets your needs
“How do I know when it’s time to replace my car?” isn’t an easy question to answer. However, one of the best signs that your car is destined to be traded is if it no longer meets your needs. If your lifestyle has changed over the years, it’s likely that your vehicle is no longer right for you. For example, perhaps you’ve expanded your family and need more space for little passengers, or your commute has altered and you no longer need a car that’s as powerful. If you need another car to better suit your new circumstances, it’s time to wave goodbye to your old motor.
Car repairs in Barnsley and Wombwell
Older cars often need frequent repairs. So, if you’re not quite ready to replace your vehicle and want to fix your existing motor as affordably as possible, don’t hesitate to contact Wyatt’s Auto Services. We can carry out a huge range of car repairs in Barnsley and Wombwell. Our highly experienced mechanics can return your car to full working order as quickly and efficiently as possible. Our prices are amongst the most competitive in the area, which means you won’t pay more than you need to for car repairs.
Contact us
“How do I know when it’s time to replace my car?” is one of the most common questions we get asked here at Wyatt’s Auto Services. Ultimately, if your car has started to cost you more to keep on the road than it’s actually worth monetarily, it may be time to trade it in.
To talk to one of our team, call us on 01226 979 087. You can also send us a message via our website if you prefer.