- Continuous overheating
- Failing brakes
- Funny noises
- Glitchy electronics
- Rising fuel use
- Too many jumpstarts
If you have to deal with glitchy electronics and funny noises, rising fuel use, regular jumpstarts and overheating, or continuous brake problems in your daily driver, it may be time to let go and invest in a new one, even if it’s only new to you.
After years of use, a car may become too problematic to the point where repairing it will soon be a less financially savvy decision than selling it while it still has value.
“While the very thought of selling and moving on can leave you flustered, it may just be time to do so before you end up with a worthless piece of metal,” said used-car platform Motus Select.
“Cutting your losses can often be the best way to avoid this type of situation.”
For this reason, Motus has provided an explanation of the six most obvious signs of an ageing car and their negative impact.
Continuous overheating
If your car continuously overheats despite having a stack of empty coolant bottles at home, it could be a sign of cooling system leaks, blocked hoses from corrosion and mineral deposits, radiator issues, or broken water pumps.
Continuous overheating requires urgent attention because it can become hazardous to your safety in the long run as well as cause problems in other parts of the engine, which can quickly become very expensive.
Failing brakes
Even with the most stringent service schedule, if you are burning through your brake pads far too often, it can be a sign that your car is overworking.
“While a full analysis can help you figure out what the source of the issue is, this costs time and money with no guarantee of a permanent fix,” said Motus.
Funny noises
Besides the usual variety of sounds your car produces which you have probably gotten used to by now, it is important to note the odd ones out you may not have heard before.
If new noises and vibrations are becoming more regular, it highlights potential engine parts that are not working as they should.
Glitchy electronics
Depending on the age and model of your vehicle, computer or electrical problems can become serious money-guzzlers as they require skilled mechanics, which more often than not results in expensive bills.
“Instead of wasting time trying to find out what’s short-circuited or deciphering error codes, it may be time to upgrade,” said Motus.
Rising fuel use
If your car is starting to use more fuel than it once did despite consistent servicing and upkeep, it’s a sign of ageing parts that are not functioning optimally anymore.
These components can be hard to find and difficult to replace, and oftentimes cost more than anticipated to fix.
Too many jumpstarts
By the time jumpstarts or kickstarts become part of your daily routine, there are big problems and you should seriously consider saying goodbye to your ride and hello to a new one.
“Unfortunately, no amount of repairs or replacements can help a car that has passed its expiration date,” said Motus.
“Engine failures, dead batteries, and poor-performing alternators can be more expensive to care for than simply buying a new car.”
Keyword: When you know it’s time to sell your car