Trading In vs Repairing Your Vehicle

Are you having car troubles again? The problem with car issues is that they always seem to pop up at the worst times and force you to make a tough call. You're probably wondering if you should try to have your car fixed or trade it in and get a new one. At Tempe Kia, we understand this is a big decision. This is why we have this guide to help you determine if you should stick to your current vehicle or buy a new one.

Benefits of Repairing

Jumping into buying a brand-new car might not be the best move for you, whether it's because of budget concerns or other factors. Let's explore why sticking with repairs could be the wiser choice.

Fixing an Existing Car Costs Less Than Splurging on a New One

Replacing something major like an engine or transmission can set you back between $3,000 and $7,000 at a dealership, but that still pales compared to the amount you need to shell out for a new vehicle.

You might think that the money you will spend on repairs could already cover a down payment on a vehicle. But remember other expenses like monthly payments, higher insurance rates, and registration fees.

You should also think about depreciation. A new car typically loses around 22% of its value within the first year alone. Your current car has already taken that hit. You might consider getting another used car for that price range, but remember, it could have car issues as well.

You Need Your Current Vehicle to Last Longer

You may be planning to buy a new ride in a year or two, but your current one is giving up on you sooner than expected. Repairing it now means you can keep cruising while avoiding any rushed decisions on a new purchase. It also gives you more time to stash away some cash and sort out your finances.

Your Car Has Sentimental Value

Whether it was your first set of wheels, a gift from someone special, or just that dream car you were able to purchase after a long time, buying a new vehicle would mean saying goodbye to an old buddy. While this isn't the best reason for fixing it up, it counts.

Benefits of Trading In

You promised yourself you wouldn't spend another dime on that old car after the last repair, but the thought of buying a new ride feels a bit overwhelming. Here's why getting a new car might be a good idea:

You Want to Stop Worrying About Breakdowns

Let's be honest: Older cars can be very unreliable. Just because you fix one issue doesn't mean another won't crop up soon after. When you get a new car, the warranty covers major repairs for at least three years. So, you can breathe easily for a while. Getting a reliable used car, like a certified pre-owned one, can give you peace of mind.

You're Sick of Repair Shop Visits

It's frustrating when things don't get fixed right the first time, or your car always seems to need something tweaked. Those trips to the mechanic end up draining your wallet and eating into valuable time with family or work.

You're Done With Your Old Clunker

Maybe your ride is so old it makes you cringe every time you drive. Whether it rattles like crazy or needs a good whack to get the air conditioning going, these are good reasons to let it go. Check your budget and honestly evaluate your finances. Online tools can help you with that.

You Worry About Safety

New cars come with the latest safety features. Features like automatic emergency braking, backup cameras, and blind-spot warnings are becoming standard in many new models.

Trade Your Vehicle In at Tempe Kia

Do you want to find out what your car is worth? With the online trade-in tools at Tempe Kia, you can easily check your vehicle's value and see how much it could knock off the price of a new one. When you trade in with us, you're not just getting a fantastic vehicle but also cutting down on those monthly payments. Reach out to one of our team members today to learn how simple it is to trade with us. We hope to see you in our Tempe, AZ dealership soon.