Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Took my (pretty much reliable) 08 Grand Cherokee in for an oil change today, and the auto mechanics noted some other issues-
The exhaust system/muffler now has a hole in it and should be replaced: $765.76
The suspension is original, and the front strut/shock is leaking: $1297 ($2594 to replace both sets as everything is original)
---- To add to that, they also recommended checking and probably replacing the original ball joints and wheel bearings
The front diff CV axel is leaking: $400-$800.
Brake fluid/power steering are due for a flush ($431) and the trans flush ($367).
The vehicle has run fine, but is now starting to have the typical wear and tear issues. Also to note, the front fenders are both starting to rust out at the bottom near the wheel wells, and the the hood has lost a lot of clear coat and is peeling.
The total comes out to ~$4,557 to $5,000 or so.
I could easily pay this and keep on driving it, but I keep thinking - what else will then go wrong?
The exhaust system/muffler now has a hole in it and should be replaced: $765.76
The suspension is original, and the front strut/shock is leaking: $1297 ($2594 to replace both sets as everything is original)
---- To add to that, they also recommended checking and probably replacing the original ball joints and wheel bearings
The front diff CV axel is leaking: $400-$800.
Brake fluid/power steering are due for a flush ($431) and the trans flush ($367).
The vehicle has run fine, but is now starting to have the typical wear and tear issues. Also to note, the front fenders are both starting to rust out at the bottom near the wheel wells, and the the hood has lost a lot of clear coat and is peeling.
The total comes out to ~$4,557 to $5,000 or so.
I could easily pay this and keep on driving it, but I keep thinking - what else will then go wrong?
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I wouldn’t do any of that work honestly. Just continue to drive it until you get sick of the rust and failing clear coat or something catastrophic happens like a transmission failure or blown engine. Or sell it as is and buy something newer if those things bother you.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Those sound like typical maintenance items that haven’t been addressed. It also sound like you are trying to convince yourself to buy a new vehicle in a terrible new car market. I’d do the maintenance and wait for the new car market to get back to reality.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Those prices are pretty high.
Do you have a muffler shop in your area? I'm talking a "Muffler Man" little hole in the wall place?
They will patch or weld your exhaust issue.
The other items, I'd keep driving until you know something needs to be done.
Do you have a muffler shop in your area? I'm talking a "Muffler Man" little hole in the wall place?
They will patch or weld your exhaust issue.
The other items, I'd keep driving until you know something needs to be done.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
If you did nothing and sold it what could you get for it? How much is the vehicle you would buy? Those are equally critical data points in make this choice.
If you could get $7500 and buy what you want for $25K, I would probably upgrade a 14 year old car.
If you can get $2500 and the upgrade will cost $60k I would have to think long and hard about how much I value having a new(er) vehicle.
Now is not a great time to purchase most vehicles which also needs to be a factor.
If you could get $7500 and buy what you want for $25K, I would probably upgrade a 14 year old car.
If you can get $2500 and the upgrade will cost $60k I would have to think long and hard about how much I value having a new(er) vehicle.
Now is not a great time to purchase most vehicles which also needs to be a factor.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
1) These prices seem high - is this a dealer by any chance? Either way, I'd get a second opinion on cost and work needed.
2) Some of these items are more of long term investments vs. immediate needs.
I don't think I'd put $5k into a 14 year old Grand Cherokee, and would be more likely to do the minimum to keep it limping along, but decision would be largely dependent on intended use - around town vs. longer drives where issues would be more critical.
2) Some of these items are more of long term investments vs. immediate needs.
I don't think I'd put $5k into a 14 year old Grand Cherokee, and would be more likely to do the minimum to keep it limping along, but decision would be largely dependent on intended use - around town vs. longer drives where issues would be more critical.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Agree.Kenkat wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:38 pm I wouldn’t do any of that work honestly. Just continue to drive it until you get sick of the rust and failing clear coat or something catastrophic happens like a transmission failure or blown engine. Or sell it as is and buy something newer if those things bother you.
I am in the same boat. So many little problems in my old car, looks ugly, too. Just waiting for something major to go.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I appreciate the reply, but don't appreciate the assumptions.Californiastate wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:40 pm Those sound like typical maintenance items that haven’t been addressed. It also sound like you are trying to convince yourself to buy a new vehicle in a terrible new car market. I’d do the maintenance and wait for the new car market to get back to reality.
I have maintained this vehicle with regular maintenance throughout the 11 years I've owned it (bought in 2011). The shock/struts/ball joints/bearings/etc weren't addressed because.... they didn't need to be.
I'm not trying to convince myself of anything. I would like to make the correct financial / life choice - put more money into a vehicle that is going to get older, or buy a new vehicle while the market is at the top. Both choices are not winning in anybody's book...
And when is this car market going to get back to reality? Every year - vehicles are getting more and more expensive and tech driven. I would LOVE to see prices return to near where I bought this back in 2011, but we both know that will never happen.
The same can be said for telling somebody to "wait for the housing market to correct." If I were to have done that back in 2016 and not purchased my home - I would be either not a home owner today, or possibly house poor.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
According to KBB - my trade in range with a "FAIR" vehicle quality is $1884-$2471 and a private party sell price point at $3834-$5059.DoubleComma wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:43 pm If you did nothing and sold it what could you get for it? How much is the vehicle you would buy? Those are equally critical data points in make this choice.
If you could get $7500 and buy what you want for $25K, I would probably upgrade a 14 year old car.
If you can get $2500 and the upgrade will cost $60k I would have to think long and hard about how much I value having a new(er) vehicle.
Now is not a great time to purchase most vehicles which also needs to be a factor.
A vehicle that I have been window shopping and got an OTD price with taxes/fees would come to $48k.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Sigz,Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:33 pm Took my (pretty much reliable) 08 Grand Cherokee in for an oil change today, and the auto mechanics noted some other issues-
The exhaust system/muffler now has a hole in it and should be replaced: $765.76
The suspension is original, and the front strut/shock is leaking: $1297 ($2594 to replace both sets as everything is original)
---- To add to that, they also recommended checking and probably replacing the original ball joints and wheel bearings
The front diff CV axel is leaking: $400-$800.
Brake fluid/power steering are due for a flush ($431) and the trans flush ($367).
The vehicle has run fine, but is now starting to have the typical wear and tear issues. Also to note, the front fenders are both starting to rust out at the bottom near the wheel wells, and the the hood has lost a lot of clear coat and is peeling.
The total comes out to ~$4,557 to $5,000 or so.
I could easily pay this and keep on driving it, but I keep thinking - what else will then go wrong?
14 years...you've done well! Replace as possible.
Are you having the work done at a dealer or independent mechanic? Prices seem like dealer prices.
If it were mine, I'd tell my go-to indpendent mechanic to fix only what was broke.
I'd skip both flushes unless there was a big problem.
I'd start socking the money away for a replacement.
Bottom line: In your situation, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
A quick google search there is something of a "muffler man" in my neck of the woods. I will inquire...
The only thing that I don't like about "keep driving it" is a shock/strut seems to be a vital component on the suspension of a vehicle. I would hate for something to happen in a freak accident cruising down the highway with my 8 month old in the back.
The cosmetics/rust/paint is whatever. I could care less. But the mechanical stuff is what I'm more worried about.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
If my trusted mechanic said that anything was a safety issue, I'd fix it.Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 5:14 pmA quick google search there is something of a "muffler man" in my neck of the woods. I will inquire...
The only thing that I don't like about "keep driving it" is a shock/strut seems to be a vital component on the suspension of a vehicle. I would hate for something to happen in a freak accident cruising down the highway with my 8 month old in the back.
The cosmetics/rust/paint is whatever. I could care less. But the mechanical stuff is what I'm more worried about.
If a dealer told me anything, I would not believe it. I don't trust dealer shops.
The key is to have a trusted mechanic. Ask around; they are out there.
My shop is not a full service shop, but can do everything that you've listed.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
With a 14 year old car I would say its safe to say best case it has a few years of life left before it "needs to be replaced". That doesn't mean replacing it now is a mistake.Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 5:11 pmAccording to KBB - my trade in range with a "FAIR" vehicle quality is $1884-$2471 and a private party sell price point at $3834-$5059.DoubleComma wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:43 pm If you did nothing and sold it what could you get for it? How much is the vehicle you would buy? Those are equally critical data points in make this choice.
If you could get $7500 and buy what you want for $25K, I would probably upgrade a 14 year old car.
If you can get $2500 and the upgrade will cost $60k I would have to think long and hard about how much I value having a new(er) vehicle.
Now is not a great time to purchase most vehicles which also needs to be a factor.
A vehicle that I have been window shopping and got an OTD price with taxes/fees would come to $48k.
So, do want to spend ~$45k?
To help figure that out, ask yourself if you believe the car market will normalize to something that we used to experience pre-covid/pre-supply chain challenges in the next couple of years? If so, do you think the equivalent vehicle will cost remarkably less in that time? Of course your current vehicle will be worth less, but maybe not significantly considering its value today.
If I'm in your shoes, and part of me just wants a new vehicle, and I think the current market might be costing me ~$3k more vs waiting I would just pull the trigger and just upgrade now. If the vehicle you are considering is one of the crazy popular models that have $8-$10k market adjustment I would wait.
With a 14 year old vehicle you have gotten most of its value, you could squeeze a little more but that is up to your value judgement.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
You mentioned you've already been "window shopping" so it sounds like you have it in mind that you would like a new vehicle. Nothing wrong with that.
Fourteen years is a pretty good run. A new vehicle will have the updated safety features and bring the peace of mind of not worrying about breaking down. If you want a new vehicle, go buy yourself a new vehicle and enjoy it.
Good luck whatever you decide!
Fourteen years is a pretty good run. A new vehicle will have the updated safety features and bring the peace of mind of not worrying about breaking down. If you want a new vehicle, go buy yourself a new vehicle and enjoy it.
Good luck whatever you decide!
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Are you or would you like to be a do it yourselfer? Jeeps are about the simplest vehicles known to man. You could even give it a shot and do some stuff yourself.
1) brake fluid. Buy a turkey baster and a container of dot 3 brake fluid. Open the reservoir and get some kind of bowl or can to put old fluid into. Use the baster and take out what you can of the fluid. Put it in the can. Pour in new dot 3. Close up the reservoir and plan to do this 3 or 4 more times in the next year. The fluid will make its way through the system. This works. Easier and cheaper than a full flush, which I know all about, having raced cars for 25 years.
2) Diff leak. Honestly, if you're not seeing a LOT of oil on your driveway, it's no big deal. I'd get some of the cheapest 75W 90 gear oil you can find. Ask the auto parts store for a foot of rubber brake line. Tell them you want to put it on the nipple of the gear oil container. Now get under the front of the Jeep. I expect this is the same bolt as my Wrangler, so it'll simply be a ratchet kind of square hole. Take a ratchet with an extension and unscrew this. Cut the top off the nipple of the gear oil and you may need to unscrew it and remove the seal. Then put the hose onto that. Put the hose into the hole and bring the container up above the hole and squeeze. When fluid starts running out the hole, pull the hose out, and put that way and put the screw back in.
Now, if you want to really do it right, take off all the bolts on the front. Use something like a flat scraper to pry the cover off. It's held with gasket material. Oh, you can go to the back of the diff and there's another square bolt for draining. Pull that off to drain the thing first. Ok, so with the cover off scrape the flat surface on the diff and also on the cover. Use brake fluid and a brush to clean it up and remove the oil. Don't spare the fluid on the diff as the stuff that gets inside will force out some of the oil on the bottom. Use rags to sop up oil on the bottom inside of the diff. When all clean do a good spraying of more brake fluid. Now get the green tube of differential gasket maker. Put the gasket maker all around the cover surface. Put one bolt in place on the cover and fit it and screw the bolt in a bit. Put the rest in only finger tight. Leave it overnight. Now torque them to 21 foot pounds or just medium tight. Put in the rear drain bolt and put in the fluid. Then put in the fill plug. I tend to brake clean the plugs and put a little gasket material on the threads.
3) CV axles are well under $100 each. This is more involved and I'd recommend watching youtube videos. It can get tricky with this old a vehicle. Before even doing this, get under the vehicle and look carefully for rips in either boot on each axle. If there are none, get out from under the Jeep and ignore it.
4) Ball joints are wear items and if your state has a state inspection, you'll fail when they're worn. If you haven't failed, don't do them. They're not super difficult on a Jeep.
5) Power steering fluid? Really? It's sorta lifetime. Ignore it if its not low.
Rust? That's character. Pfffft.
1) brake fluid. Buy a turkey baster and a container of dot 3 brake fluid. Open the reservoir and get some kind of bowl or can to put old fluid into. Use the baster and take out what you can of the fluid. Put it in the can. Pour in new dot 3. Close up the reservoir and plan to do this 3 or 4 more times in the next year. The fluid will make its way through the system. This works. Easier and cheaper than a full flush, which I know all about, having raced cars for 25 years.
2) Diff leak. Honestly, if you're not seeing a LOT of oil on your driveway, it's no big deal. I'd get some of the cheapest 75W 90 gear oil you can find. Ask the auto parts store for a foot of rubber brake line. Tell them you want to put it on the nipple of the gear oil container. Now get under the front of the Jeep. I expect this is the same bolt as my Wrangler, so it'll simply be a ratchet kind of square hole. Take a ratchet with an extension and unscrew this. Cut the top off the nipple of the gear oil and you may need to unscrew it and remove the seal. Then put the hose onto that. Put the hose into the hole and bring the container up above the hole and squeeze. When fluid starts running out the hole, pull the hose out, and put that way and put the screw back in.
Now, if you want to really do it right, take off all the bolts on the front. Use something like a flat scraper to pry the cover off. It's held with gasket material. Oh, you can go to the back of the diff and there's another square bolt for draining. Pull that off to drain the thing first. Ok, so with the cover off scrape the flat surface on the diff and also on the cover. Use brake fluid and a brush to clean it up and remove the oil. Don't spare the fluid on the diff as the stuff that gets inside will force out some of the oil on the bottom. Use rags to sop up oil on the bottom inside of the diff. When all clean do a good spraying of more brake fluid. Now get the green tube of differential gasket maker. Put the gasket maker all around the cover surface. Put one bolt in place on the cover and fit it and screw the bolt in a bit. Put the rest in only finger tight. Leave it overnight. Now torque them to 21 foot pounds or just medium tight. Put in the rear drain bolt and put in the fluid. Then put in the fill plug. I tend to brake clean the plugs and put a little gasket material on the threads.
3) CV axles are well under $100 each. This is more involved and I'd recommend watching youtube videos. It can get tricky with this old a vehicle. Before even doing this, get under the vehicle and look carefully for rips in either boot on each axle. If there are none, get out from under the Jeep and ignore it.
4) Ball joints are wear items and if your state has a state inspection, you'll fail when they're worn. If you haven't failed, don't do them. They're not super difficult on a Jeep.
5) Power steering fluid? Really? It's sorta lifetime. Ignore it if its not low.
Rust? That's character. Pfffft.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
It sounds like your mind is made up.Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 5:07 pmI appreciate the reply, but don't appreciate the assumptions.Californiastate wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:40 pm Those sound like typical maintenance items that haven’t been addressed. It also sound like you are trying to convince yourself to buy a new vehicle in a terrible new car market. I’d do the maintenance and wait for the new car market to get back to reality.
I have maintained this vehicle with regular maintenance throughout the 11 years I've owned it (bought in 2011). The shock/struts/ball joints/bearings/etc weren't addressed because.... they didn't need to be.
I'm not trying to convince myself of anything. I would like to make the correct financial / life choice - put more money into a vehicle that is going to get older, or buy a new vehicle while the market is at the top. Both choices are not winning in anybody's book...
And when is this car market going to get back to reality? Every year - vehicles are getting more and more expensive and tech driven. I would LOVE to see prices return to near where I bought this back in 2011, but we both know that will never happen.
The same can be said for telling somebody to "wait for the housing market to correct." If I were to have done that back in 2016 and not purchased my home - I would be either not a home owner today, or possibly house poor.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I wish. I have a very flip floppy mind when it comes to financial decisions. Always have, and I always will. I think my wife is getting annoyed with it... haha.Californiastate wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 6:59 pmIt sounds like your mind is made up.Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 5:07 pmI appreciate the reply, but don't appreciate the assumptions.Californiastate wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:40 pm Those sound like typical maintenance items that haven’t been addressed. It also sound like you are trying to convince yourself to buy a new vehicle in a terrible new car market. I’d do the maintenance and wait for the new car market to get back to reality.
I have maintained this vehicle with regular maintenance throughout the 11 years I've owned it (bought in 2011). The shock/struts/ball joints/bearings/etc weren't addressed because.... they didn't need to be.
I'm not trying to convince myself of anything. I would like to make the correct financial / life choice - put more money into a vehicle that is going to get older, or buy a new vehicle while the market is at the top. Both choices are not winning in anybody's book...
And when is this car market going to get back to reality? Every year - vehicles are getting more and more expensive and tech driven. I would LOVE to see prices return to near where I bought this back in 2011, but we both know that will never happen.
The same can be said for telling somebody to "wait for the housing market to correct." If I were to have done that back in 2016 and not purchased my home - I would be either not a home owner today, or possibly house poor.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Sigz,
After WW2, the only new vehicles that one could buy were Willy's Jeeps. My dad bought one as soon as he was released from the army. By the time that I was born in 1947, black cars were available. My mother delivered me and promptly told my dad, "The baby is not coming home in a Jeep!" I came home in a '47 Plymouth...black.
Bottom Line: Transporting young children safely is a great excuse to get a new vehicle!
After all, you made a good move when you bought your house!
After WW2, the only new vehicles that one could buy were Willy's Jeeps. My dad bought one as soon as he was released from the army. By the time that I was born in 1947, black cars were available. My mother delivered me and promptly told my dad, "The baby is not coming home in a Jeep!" I came home in a '47 Plymouth...black.
Bottom Line: Transporting young children safely is a great excuse to get a new vehicle!
After all, you made a good move when you bought your house!
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Whats the mileage?
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
How far from home do you go in this vehicle?
I certainly wouldn’t feel comfortable going very far afield, given what you know about it and also what you don’t know.
I certainly wouldn’t feel comfortable going very far afield, given what you know about it and also what you don’t know.
One thing that humbles me deeply is to see that human genius has its limits while human stupidity does not. - Alexandre Dumas, fils
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Putting in four to five thousand in a car thats only worth 1800-2500 would not be a good idea at all. Personally i am in fix the old car instead of buying a new one camp. and i also have a 14 yr old car. But if i was in your situation, i wouldn't put in more money into it.Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 5:11 pmAccording to KBB - my trade in range with a "FAIR" vehicle quality is $1884-$2471 and a private party sell price point at $3834-$5059.DoubleComma wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:43 pm If you did nothing and sold it what could you get for it? How much is the vehicle you would buy? Those are equally critical data points in make this choice.
If you could get $7500 and buy what you want for $25K, I would probably upgrade a 14 year old car.
If you can get $2500 and the upgrade will cost $60k I would have to think long and hard about how much I value having a new(er) vehicle.
Now is not a great time to purchase most vehicles which also needs to be a factor.
A vehicle that I have been window shopping and got an OTD price with taxes/fees would come to $48k.
superstition: belief that market will one day come around to your concept of fair value
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
What are your finances like?
If you are flush with money and would be paying cash for the replacement then keeping the old car just to get your frugal bragging rights might not make sense.
When you look at the cost per year then fixing it up might not even be the lowest cost per year. I normally buy new cars and keep them about 10 years then sell them while they are still worth a fair amount. Unless I get unlucky I rarely pay for much non-routine maintenance.
For example if you buy the $48K car, drive it for 10 years, then sell it for $8k it will have cost your $4K a year on average in depreciation. You would have other operating costs but you would have those with any car you drive.
Buying new cars and replacing them every ten years is not the cheapest way to own a car but I can afford it and it works for me and the cost per year easily fits in my budget.
I do very few car repairs myself so I have found that paying a mechanic to maintained cars that are more than 10 years old can get expensive pretty fast. Many of the people that post about having very high mileage cars enjoy working on their cars so they can do many repairs just for the cost of the parts and some of their time.
Paying $48K is a lot more than you would need to pay for for many new cars so you might want to reconsider is you really want to spend that much. There are lots of nice cars that you can get in the low $30k price range or even lower.
If you are not flush with money and a new $48K car would be a big stretch and you would need a car loan then buying something a lot less expensive would be a good idea.
Car safety has improved a lot in the last 14 years too.
If you are flush with money and would be paying cash for the replacement then keeping the old car just to get your frugal bragging rights might not make sense.
When you look at the cost per year then fixing it up might not even be the lowest cost per year. I normally buy new cars and keep them about 10 years then sell them while they are still worth a fair amount. Unless I get unlucky I rarely pay for much non-routine maintenance.
For example if you buy the $48K car, drive it for 10 years, then sell it for $8k it will have cost your $4K a year on average in depreciation. You would have other operating costs but you would have those with any car you drive.
Buying new cars and replacing them every ten years is not the cheapest way to own a car but I can afford it and it works for me and the cost per year easily fits in my budget.
I do very few car repairs myself so I have found that paying a mechanic to maintained cars that are more than 10 years old can get expensive pretty fast. Many of the people that post about having very high mileage cars enjoy working on their cars so they can do many repairs just for the cost of the parts and some of their time.
Paying $48K is a lot more than you would need to pay for for many new cars so you might want to reconsider is you really want to spend that much. There are lots of nice cars that you can get in the low $30k price range or even lower.
If you are not flush with money and a new $48K car would be a big stretch and you would need a car loan then buying something a lot less expensive would be a good idea.
I would be concerned that if I had a 14 year old car with 140k miles that it might die and not be worth repairing and you would have to replace it in a hurry and have to way over pay just to get a replacement car quickly. I once had to buy a replacement car in a hurry and that is not the way to get a good deal on a car even in a normal car market.
Car safety has improved a lot in the last 14 years too.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I am not a car guru but be sure to research this.
I looked into this once with an older car that I had and it sounded like if you did a transmission flush that sometime stirred up gunk and metal shavings which could cause a problem.
It is been a while but as I recall some people recommended that instead of doing a flush that you just drain the transmission then refill it since that was a lot less likely to cause problem. (Maybe it was to just drain the transmission halfway, refill it, then drive it for a few weeks then repeat the half drain and refill.)
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
This, with the other issues you mentioned, would mean replacement in my world.
"Never underestimate one's capacity to overestimate one's abilities" - The Dunning-Kruger Effect
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I would do the simple DIY items suggested, and keep driving it until I had enough money to buy the new car with cash.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I called the mechanic today to discuss these issues.
I asked him if specifically about the parts, and how important they were to repair.
According to him the strut isn't going to cause some catastrophic vehicle issue, but I will notice the ride quality get worse the longer I drive without replacing it. Down the line - that wear/tear and bad ride quality COULD eventually cause something to happen - but I should know that it's "done" long before that happens.
The good news - is that the $1297 quote was for BOTH front sets of struts, where I originally thought that it was for a single strut.
I did ask him since everything is original - if it would be worth it to replace the shocks as they are related to the struts and that since they are already wanting to replace the struts to knock it all out. He said that it wasn't needed, but if I decided to continue to use this Jeep that he would recommend it as the age/wear of everything else and the fact that it's 141k on the odometer - he would recommend that.
He quoted me $540 for that.
I asked if the hole in the exhaust system (muffler) was a big issue. From my little auto knowledge - I would assume the vehicle would just sound louder and it wouldn't effect the actual function of the vehicle. He agreed - but to a point where he mentioned leaving it go as is (and get worse) could cause the buildup of dangerous fumes, potential catalytic converter failure, and engine failure if the issue gets closer to the exhaust manifold.
Again, the repair was quoted at $765.
He didn't seem too amused with the CV axel leak. He pretty much said that seals eventually "go" and this was a quite "slow" leak and wasn't needed at this time but something to think of if (again) I plan on keeping it....
Finally - he wrote that the most important thing to do with a vehicle this age is to maintain the "blood" of the vehicle. Keep the oil clean and changed, and follow the recommended intervals to replace/flush the vital components - transmission, power steering, brake lines, etc. That in part is almost more important than a part per say - as if something gunky builds up with one of those vital components - it could case a VERY expensive repair.
So basically I'm in the same position as I was in the other day - other than noting the strut quote was for BOTH front struts.
The total repair on a 14 year old vehicle with 141k miles is:
(Struts) $1297
(Shocks) $540
Exhaust $765
Brake fluid/power steering flush $431 and the trans flush $367.
~ $3400.
Part of me says to just pay it and keep it going until it rots away on a WI road. But the other part of me (including my wife) says it's time to just suck it up and get a new vehicle with (hopefully) no issues, better safety features, better tech, and a newer ride.
I am not a TRUE 100% Boglehead in the way that I haven't MAXED all my retirement accounts.
Income: I make $80,400/year. My wife makes $76,600/year but just got a job promotion and HR is working out the details of compensation....
Debt: $199k Mortgage (30 year loan @ 3.25%) / her vehicle ($28k left @ 1.67% 48month loan)
Cash: $46,484. Also have a recent windfall of $125,000 that I was told not to touch for years and is locked in a 5 year CD @ 3.6%.
Retirement: Haven't looked at my accounts this last year. But I contribute:
His 22% contribution to pretax 457b invested in Vanguard 2055 TDF: $38,000 last I looked.
His 6.5% pretax contribution + employer match of 6.5% contribution to WI WRS state pension: (??? unknown, but currently VESTED)
His Charles Schwab Roth IRA (invested Schwab Total Stock Market SWTSX): $25,763
Her Charles Schwab Roth (invested in also a TDRF - SWYMX): $25,345
Her 12% contribution to pretax work 401k (they match 3%) invested in Vanguard 2055 TDF: $44,228
Assets: House "Zestimate" @ $406,300
Children: x1 8 month old.
I'm not coming here to ask for permission to buy a new vehicle. Sometimes it's good to just break it down, look at the #s, and have a discussion with multiple different opinions.
I'm swaying towards buying a newer/safer/ and hopefully reliable vehicle instead of putting $$ into an aging one.
It'll be a loan with a good chunk of cash down (which I know is also looked down upon), but that is the choice and payment I can swing while maintaining our current retirement contributions and current lifestyle with expenses.
Thanks.
I asked him if specifically about the parts, and how important they were to repair.
According to him the strut isn't going to cause some catastrophic vehicle issue, but I will notice the ride quality get worse the longer I drive without replacing it. Down the line - that wear/tear and bad ride quality COULD eventually cause something to happen - but I should know that it's "done" long before that happens.
The good news - is that the $1297 quote was for BOTH front sets of struts, where I originally thought that it was for a single strut.
I did ask him since everything is original - if it would be worth it to replace the shocks as they are related to the struts and that since they are already wanting to replace the struts to knock it all out. He said that it wasn't needed, but if I decided to continue to use this Jeep that he would recommend it as the age/wear of everything else and the fact that it's 141k on the odometer - he would recommend that.
He quoted me $540 for that.
I asked if the hole in the exhaust system (muffler) was a big issue. From my little auto knowledge - I would assume the vehicle would just sound louder and it wouldn't effect the actual function of the vehicle. He agreed - but to a point where he mentioned leaving it go as is (and get worse) could cause the buildup of dangerous fumes, potential catalytic converter failure, and engine failure if the issue gets closer to the exhaust manifold.
Again, the repair was quoted at $765.
He didn't seem too amused with the CV axel leak. He pretty much said that seals eventually "go" and this was a quite "slow" leak and wasn't needed at this time but something to think of if (again) I plan on keeping it....
Finally - he wrote that the most important thing to do with a vehicle this age is to maintain the "blood" of the vehicle. Keep the oil clean and changed, and follow the recommended intervals to replace/flush the vital components - transmission, power steering, brake lines, etc. That in part is almost more important than a part per say - as if something gunky builds up with one of those vital components - it could case a VERY expensive repair.
So basically I'm in the same position as I was in the other day - other than noting the strut quote was for BOTH front struts.
The total repair on a 14 year old vehicle with 141k miles is:
(Struts) $1297
(Shocks) $540
Exhaust $765
Brake fluid/power steering flush $431 and the trans flush $367.
~ $3400.
Part of me says to just pay it and keep it going until it rots away on a WI road. But the other part of me (including my wife) says it's time to just suck it up and get a new vehicle with (hopefully) no issues, better safety features, better tech, and a newer ride.
I am not a TRUE 100% Boglehead in the way that I haven't MAXED all my retirement accounts.
Income: I make $80,400/year. My wife makes $76,600/year but just got a job promotion and HR is working out the details of compensation....
Debt: $199k Mortgage (30 year loan @ 3.25%) / her vehicle ($28k left @ 1.67% 48month loan)
Cash: $46,484. Also have a recent windfall of $125,000 that I was told not to touch for years and is locked in a 5 year CD @ 3.6%.
Retirement: Haven't looked at my accounts this last year. But I contribute:
His 22% contribution to pretax 457b invested in Vanguard 2055 TDF: $38,000 last I looked.
His 6.5% pretax contribution + employer match of 6.5% contribution to WI WRS state pension: (??? unknown, but currently VESTED)
His Charles Schwab Roth IRA (invested Schwab Total Stock Market SWTSX): $25,763
Her Charles Schwab Roth (invested in also a TDRF - SWYMX): $25,345
Her 12% contribution to pretax work 401k (they match 3%) invested in Vanguard 2055 TDF: $44,228
Assets: House "Zestimate" @ $406,300
Children: x1 8 month old.
I'm not coming here to ask for permission to buy a new vehicle. Sometimes it's good to just break it down, look at the #s, and have a discussion with multiple different opinions.
I'm swaying towards buying a newer/safer/ and hopefully reliable vehicle instead of putting $$ into an aging one.
It'll be a loan with a good chunk of cash down (which I know is also looked down upon), but that is the choice and payment I can swing while maintaining our current retirement contributions and current lifestyle with expenses.
Thanks.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Sigz,
I like that you're studying your problem and searching for all possible solutions.
I like the idea of locking down windfalls in safe fixed income.
When I'm considering the purchase of a big ticket item, I write all the facts down on the back of an envelope (or spreadsheet), talk to my wife, and sleep on it until the answer becomes clear. I like the idea of being debt free, but most of my life didn't work that way. Being debt free was always my goal.
I like that you're studying your problem and searching for all possible solutions.
I like the idea of locking down windfalls in safe fixed income.
When I'm considering the purchase of a big ticket item, I write all the facts down on the back of an envelope (or spreadsheet), talk to my wife, and sleep on it until the answer becomes clear. I like the idea of being debt free, but most of my life didn't work that way. Being debt free was always my goal.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
There's no way the Jeep is worth $5,000 and more issues will definitely pop up. I'm in the "ignore or sell" camp.Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:33 pm Took my (pretty much reliable) 08 Grand Cherokee in for an oil change today, and the auto mechanics noted some other issues-
The exhaust system/muffler now has a hole in it and should be replaced: $765.76
The suspension is original, and the front strut/shock is leaking: $1297 ($2594 to replace both sets as everything is original)
---- To add to that, they also recommended checking and probably replacing the original ball joints and wheel bearings
The front diff CV axel is leaking: $400-$800.
Brake fluid/power steering are due for a flush ($431) and the trans flush ($367).
The vehicle has run fine, but is now starting to have the typical wear and tear issues. Also to note, the front fenders are both starting to rust out at the bottom near the wheel wells, and the the hood has lost a lot of clear coat and is peeling.
The total comes out to ~$4,557 to $5,000 or so.
I could easily pay this and keep on driving it, but I keep thinking - what else will then go wrong?
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
The big problem is that you are trying to use the problems with the Jeep to try to talk yourself into spending $48K on a new car which more than is reasonable to spend with your finances especially since you have an 8 month old baby.Sigz wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 4:57 am Part of me says to just pay it and keep it going until it rots away on a WI road. But the other part of me (including my wife) says it's time to just suck it up and get a new vehicle with (hopefully) no issues, better safety features, better tech, and a newer ride.
With being in Wisconsin I can understand that you would want a reliable all wheel drive vehicle but there are lots of nice new AWD cars and SUVs that you should be able to get for around $30K or even less. With the current car market shortages you would need to be flexible about which model you get and may need to wait for a few months for delivery.
A quick Google found this list.
https://www.kbb.com/best-cars/10-best-a ... der-30000/
Even if you spend the money to do all the things for the Jeep with the age and milage it would be hard to consider it to be in the "reliable" category. There is also a good chance that if the mechanic does all the work that more things will also be found that need to be done.
Getting a car in that price range would be relatively affordable for you as long as you plan on keeping it for at least 10 years.
Last edited by Watty on Thu Oct 06, 2022 6:06 am, edited 1 time in total.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
A leaky exhaust can be dangerous. Depending on where the leak is, and how long you drive the car. I would not take it on an all day drive, but would be OK with a 10 minute drive. Exhaust in the cabin can be dangerous. Once rust starts, it is hard to stop.
I think in your shoes I'd start looking for a new car. Especially since your wife thinks it is a good idea.
I think in your shoes I'd start looking for a new car. Especially since your wife thinks it is a good idea.
Retired 2019. So far, so good. I want to wake up every morning. But I want to die in my sleep. Just another conundrum. I think the solution might be afternoon naps ;)
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Yes. I'm a very indecisive person when it comes to finances. I really do not like to spend money. I think I got it from my father, who got it from his father.hudson wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 5:07 am Sigz,
I like that you're studying your problem and searching for all possible solutions.
I like the idea of locking down windfalls in safe fixed income.
When I'm considering the purchase of a big ticket item, I write all the facts down on the back of an envelope (or spreadsheet), talk to my wife, and sleep on it until the answer becomes clear. I like the idea of being debt free, but most of my life didn't work that way. Being debt free was always my goal.
I do not like debt either, and have never had debt until I purchased my home and last year when we bought a new vehicle for my wife.
Granted debt is debt, at least with that the rate is so low, it really hasn't been an issue financially - meaning we didn't have to really change anything. Sure it was an added burden to our finances technically, so there is always that compared to buying it outright and owning it.
I will continue to ponder, write pros/cons, post here, and talk about it. Thanks.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
The only 3 things I'd borrow money for are, 1) an education, 2) a place to live, and 3) a reliable car. Interest on car loans is still pretty reasonable. We have 2 car loans, one at 0%, one at 1.9% - practically free money. I could pay them off, but why would I ?
I also borrowed money for solar panels, but I consider that part of a place to live.
I guess I would borrow for something else if I had to. But that is not likely.
Debt is a tool. Nothing wrong with it if used wisely IMO.
Unless you have an emotional connection to your jeep, I'd move on. You could probably drive it for many more years. I aim for 20 years. But then you'd have to keep making the decision over and over for many years. Sometimes you just have to say, OK it is time. As long as you can swing 2 car payments, and it sounds like you can (although who knows with the wrinkle of a new kid - they can be expensive), I'd probably just do it now. If your jeep happens to die at an inconvenient time or place, you'll wish you had decided to replace it before that happened.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience. The last car I bought I could not test drive. Then had to wait 3 months for deliver. And pay MSRP. But it was time. . .
The reason I suggest looking for a new car now is that it might take some time to actually get it! Probably best to do that while your jeep is still usable.
I also borrowed money for solar panels, but I consider that part of a place to live.
I guess I would borrow for something else if I had to. But that is not likely.
Debt is a tool. Nothing wrong with it if used wisely IMO.
Unless you have an emotional connection to your jeep, I'd move on. You could probably drive it for many more years. I aim for 20 years. But then you'd have to keep making the decision over and over for many years. Sometimes you just have to say, OK it is time. As long as you can swing 2 car payments, and it sounds like you can (although who knows with the wrinkle of a new kid - they can be expensive), I'd probably just do it now. If your jeep happens to die at an inconvenient time or place, you'll wish you had decided to replace it before that happened.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience. The last car I bought I could not test drive. Then had to wait 3 months for deliver. And pay MSRP. But it was time. . .
The reason I suggest looking for a new car now is that it might take some time to actually get it! Probably best to do that while your jeep is still usable.
Retired 2019. So far, so good. I want to wake up every morning. But I want to die in my sleep. Just another conundrum. I think the solution might be afternoon naps ;)
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
That is an interesting list. Nothing wrong with it. But I assume the under $30k is just for the base model. Which might be fine. And perhaps a good choice. I suspect the out the door price for any of those would be more than 30k. Perhaps because few people want the base model, and they might be hard to find.Watty wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 5:57 am
A quick Google found this list.
https://www.kbb.com/best-cars/10-best-a ... der-30000/
I was surprised my spouses 2021 Honda HRV was not on the list. It is a good little AWD. Cheaper than the CRV.
We recently bought a 2022 Highlander Hybrid Limited. I'm very happy with this car. It cost about $50k!
We like it just fine. What I consider almost huge, but still gets 35mpg - better than the HRV except on the highway. Even then it is close. My kids are grown, and bigger than they used to be. The HRV is fine for an 8 month old, and maybe an 8 year old, but I would not want to spend much time in the back seat.
If I was to buy another new car today, it would be a hybrid. It is amazing how little the engine has to run around town. 18 year old kids are bigger than 8 month old kids. Keep that in mind
Retired 2019. So far, so good. I want to wake up every morning. But I want to die in my sleep. Just another conundrum. I think the solution might be afternoon naps ;)
- quantAndHold
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I would replace it, but I’m really questioning the need for a $48k car with your financial situation when you’re already paying another car loan. $48k seems out of line with your income and other assets, unless you’re a “car guy,” and it seems unlikely that someone driving a broken down 2008 Jeep is really a car guy. You can get good solid transportation that will do anything you need for half that.
Also, Jeep. My family has a 2005 Mazda and a 2005 Honda with similar mileage to yours, and both are in much better condition than that. If you’re going to keep them forever, it might be a good idea to pick something that will last better than that.
Also, Jeep. My family has a 2005 Mazda and a 2005 Honda with similar mileage to yours, and both are in much better condition than that. If you’re going to keep them forever, it might be a good idea to pick something that will last better than that.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
If you do decide to repair, ask about using quality aftermarket struts instead of OE. Using RockAuto as a reference (which should be at least directionally accurate), the OE struts are $275 each, while Sachs are $90 and KYB are $80. Both are reputable brands.
There's also the option of preassembled struts, which are more expensive (around $140 each), but might save some labor time since the mechanic wouldn't have to disassemble and reassemble the struts to transfer the springs over.
There's also the option of preassembled struts, which are more expensive (around $140 each), but might save some labor time since the mechanic wouldn't have to disassemble and reassemble the struts to transfer the springs over.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Based on what you’ve written above (and it sounds like you have an honest mechanic), I have a different takeaway. He said the struts and shocks won’t cause catastrophic failure; you will just notice declining ride quality over time. You may need to address this someday but it’s down the road. That’s what I heard at least.
On the exhaust, similar story - it will be a problem at some point but not immediate.
For the fluids, it sounds like these should be done now.
So I think you have the following options:
1) Spend $798 now for the fluid changes, maybe $765 for the exhaust next year, with the plan to keep the vehicle for another 2-3 years
2) Trade it in as is and get a new vehicle
I would not spend the close to $2000 for struts and shocks unless you want to keep this vehicle longer than 3 years. Not worth it in my opinion.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Those repair quotes are ridiculous. I just replaced shocks and struts all the way around on my 2004 Tundra TRD. My mechanic did it for 1400$ and I live in a HCOL area where they can charge whatever they want. If that leak in your exhaust is anywhere behind the manifold, replacing it should not cost anywhere near your quotes. I bet if you shopped around you can get those “needed” repair costs almost cut in half. Find a new mechanic. On a final note, when that thing finally calls it quits, don’t buy another Jeep.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
When I took my car to the dealer they pointed these things to me as well. I then declined their service (sky high price) and took it to the mechanics I trust, who said that the brake fluid/power steering are things dealers do that are not absolutely necessary (case by case basis).
As for the trans flush they suggested (since they know I have equipment at home) to drain as much fluid as I can (usually about 1.2 liters at a time), and refill with the same amount of new fluid, drive 500 miles and repeat (total of 5 times) till the fluid is as close to pink in color as possible. Did this once on one vehicle that is near 95,000 miles and will do it on the other when it gets to that.
In this day and age (chip shortages), I'd probably make the necessary repairs and keep driving the vehicle as long as you like it. I kept a car once 22 years and managed to get just under 250,000 miles on it.
You may also be able to use some Flue Tape on the hole on the muffler. My neighbor did that and it lasted about 6 months, then he added more tape before he finally replaced his muffler
What Goes Up Must come down -- David Clayton-Thomas (1968), BST
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Interesting. The mechanic mentioned the KYB are the struts in his quote!lazydavid wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 10:16 am If you do decide to repair, ask about using quality aftermarket struts instead of OE. Using RockAuto as a reference (which should be at least directionally accurate), the OE struts are $275 each, while Sachs are $90 and KYB are $80. Both are reputable brands.
There's also the option of preassembled struts, which are more expensive (around $140 each), but might save some labor time since the mechanic wouldn't have to disassemble and reassemble the struts to transfer the springs over.
Wondering if I should get a second opinion. This isn't a dealer mechanic - but a trusted local mechanic I (and my folks) have used for years.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
quantAndHold wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 9:24 am I would replace it, but I’m really questioning the need for a $48k car with your financial situation when you’re already paying another car loan. $48k seems out of line with your income and other assets, unless you’re a “car guy,” and it seems unlikely that someone driving a broken down 2008 Jeep is really a car guy. You can get good solid transportation that will do anything you need for half that.
Also, Jeep. My family has a 2005 Mazda and a 2005 Honda with similar mileage to yours, and both are in much better condition than that. If you’re going to keep them forever, it might be a good idea to pick something that will last better than that.
Well I am not a "car guy" as I only have owned this one vehicle in my life. But I am a Jeep fanatic - and it is something that I enjoy driving/playing in.
I'm sure I could manage with a Toyota Corolla or something similar - and it would be a more wise decision (especially financially).
But then again - I'm also at the point where I want to maybe be a little selfish and buy something that I like and will keep for 10+ years (again).
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I'd get the exhaust fixed. You don't want to mess with those fumes. Get a couple quotes.
Don't worry about the struts at this point or the leaks. Then just drive it until the market stabilizes.
Don't worry about the struts at this point or the leaks. Then just drive it until the market stabilizes.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Yeah the one I'm looking at is actually on the lot and has all the features that I want. It's also $5k under MSRP....dknightd wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 6:59 amBe prepared for a frustrating experience. The last car I bought I could not test drive. Then had to wait 3 months for deliver. And pay MSRP. But it was time. . .
The reason I suggest looking for a new car now is that it might take some time to actually get it! Probably best to do that while your jeep is still usable.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Trade the Jeep for whatever they’ll give you for it and buy the new car.Sigz wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 11:26 amYeah the one I'm looking at is actually on the lot and has all the features that I want. It's also $5k under MSRP....dknightd wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 6:59 amBe prepared for a frustrating experience. The last car I bought I could not test drive. Then had to wait 3 months for deliver. And pay MSRP. But it was time. . .
The reason I suggest looking for a new car now is that it might take some time to actually get it! Probably best to do that while your jeep is still usable.
Being wrong compounds forever.
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
In the past, I found the Costco price, then went to Cars.com and put in a price that was 15% below the Costco price and within 30 minutes had 3 local dealers call me up saying that have such a vehicle and want to sell it to me. Often times it was way below MSRP. I haven't tried this in a while but when it's time to get a new car we'll do this again.Sigz wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 11:26 amYeah the one I'm looking at is actually on the lot and has all the features that I want. It's also $5k under MSRP....dknightd wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 6:59 amBe prepared for a frustrating experience. The last car I bought I could not test drive. Then had to wait 3 months for deliver. And pay MSRP. But it was time. . .
The reason I suggest looking for a new car now is that it might take some time to actually get it! Probably best to do that while your jeep is still usable.
What Goes Up Must come down -- David Clayton-Thomas (1968), BST
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
As a general rule it is best to pay cash for your toys. With your other car loan you could end up with as much as $70K in car loans which is a lot more that "a little" especially going into a likely recession. You are not talking about an occasional $500 splurge.Sigz wrote: ↑Thu Oct 06, 2022 11:24 am .....But I am a Jeep fanatic - and it is something that I enjoy driving/playing in.
I'm sure I could manage with a Toyota Corolla or something similar - and it would be a more wise decision (especially financially).
But then again - I'm also at the point where I want to maybe be a little selfish and buy something that I like and will keep for 10+ years (again).
You are likely too young to have been through a bad recession as an adult so you need to be cautious with taking on a lot of debt right now.
It could be that you really don't know what the alternatives are really like if you have never owned anything else.
Comparing a Jeep to a Corolla is a false analogy and there were lots of SUVs like the CRV, Rav4, or Forester on that list I posted that are nothing like a Corolla. Ironically last year I replace a late model Corolla with a Forester because my needs had changed so I have direct experience with that.
Before you make up your mind it would be good to pause and take your time about deciding what to do since the car repairs are not urgent, except for maybe the exhaust problem.
You could pick out at least three other cars to research and take for test drives over the next week or two to see how you like them then decide what to do.
I am not saying that any of them are the same as a Jeep but if you give them a fair chance you might be surprised and even find one that you like even more than the Jeep.
(Foresters are made in Japan and I have heard they are in very short supply now so that might not be a good choice right now. The Outback and Legacy are made in Indiana and I have heard they are not too hard to get at MSRP if you can wait a few months. I don't know why the Crosstrek was not on that list but it would be good to research too.)
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
Sigz wrote: ↑Tue Oct 04, 2022 4:33 pm Took my (pretty much reliable) 08 Grand Cherokee in for an oil change today, and the auto mechanics noted some other issues-
The exhaust system/muffler now has a hole in it and should be replaced: $765.76
The suspension is original, and the front strut/shock is leaking: $1297 ($2594 to replace both sets as everything is original)
---- To add to that, they also recommended checking and probably replacing the original ball joints and wheel bearings
The front diff CV axel is leaking: $400-$800.
Brake fluid/power steering are due for a flush ($431) and the trans flush ($367).
The vehicle has run fine, but is now starting to have the typical wear and tear issues. Also to note, the front fenders are both starting to rust out at the bottom near the wheel wells, and the the hood has lost a lot of clear coat and is peeling.
The total comes out to ~$4,557 to $5,000 or so.
I could easily pay this and keep on driving it, but I keep thinking - what else will then go wrong?
I currently drive a 19 year old jeep and it honestly needs all of those service items as well.. except for the exhaust which is fine. Just passed smog.
How many miles on it?
Those quotes seem a bit high.. but I'd do 1/2 of that work myself.
As I mentioned my jeep needs new CV axles, control arms, ball joints, (likely wheel bearings too while I'm in there) Front Diff is leaking, rear diff is leaking... These have been identified for a bit over 3 years as potential issues.. As you can see I've not yet done the work as It hasn't seemed critical.. from an end user stand point the jeep is still working great! I off-road in the canyons, deserts, and mountains and go camping and it sees some pretty rugged conditions.
My only dislike is it sub par gas mileage... Mine is a 2003... so it's not great. The 2008 and newer seems to get better mileage..
Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I had one more thought.
Another idea(it might not be a good idea ) would be to get a much less expensive car for a daily driver but to also keep your current Jeep as your "toy" and to satisfy your desire to have a Jeep.
It does not sound like it has a lot of resale value in its current condition and if you are not in a hurry you could learn to do a lot of the repairs yourself so that they would not be as expensive.
There is a risk that it could be the worst of both worlds but you can always sell it latter if it turns out that keeping it does not work out.
You did not say how you were using it but I would suspect that you are likely just using it for commuting and driving around town something like 95% of the time.
Another idea(it might not be a good idea ) would be to get a much less expensive car for a daily driver but to also keep your current Jeep as your "toy" and to satisfy your desire to have a Jeep.
It does not sound like it has a lot of resale value in its current condition and if you are not in a hurry you could learn to do a lot of the repairs yourself so that they would not be as expensive.
There is a risk that it could be the worst of both worlds but you can always sell it latter if it turns out that keeping it does not work out.
You did not say how you were using it but I would suspect that you are likely just using it for commuting and driving around town something like 95% of the time.
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Re: Repair 14 year old Jeep VS purchasing new
I'd deal with the leaky exhaust and forget about the rest. Drive it until the loan on your wife's car is paid off, then consider upgrading your Jeep.