Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Is It Best To Repair Or Replace Your Car?

Is it best to repair or replace your car? That's a good question in this economy and here are some helpful tips to make your decision a little easier for you.

(NAPSI)-A growing number of people are finding that the economy has them debating whether it's best to buy a new car or repair the one they have. If you are trying to decide between buying and repairing, here are some tips that may help:

Comparing Costs

It is typically less expensive in the long run to repair the vehicle you already own rather than purchasing a newer one. Financing even a $2,000 repair typically means lower payments (or similar payments for a shorter time) than those incurred when purchasing a newer vehicle.

The 50-Percent Rule
After receiving the estimate of a major repair, consider the "50-percent rule." When the cost of a needed repair approaches 50 percent of the vehicle's value, it is time to seriously consider replacing it.

Reliability And Maintenance History
The best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop. If a repair shop knows the service history of a vehicle, consumers can look to its technicians for guidance on when their vehicle likely will need major repairs.

"Following the vehicle manufacturer's maintenance recommendations can greatly increase the life span of vehicle," said John Nielsen, director of AAA Approved Auto Repair and Auto Buying.

Cosmetics
The cosmetic condition of a vehicle can greatly affect its value and a motorist's desire to hold on to it. Motorists should take a critical look at their vehicle for signs of wear and tear and evaluate how important their vehicle's cosmetics are to them.

Lifestyle
Changes in lifestyle can be a large factor in changing vehicles. Family size, commute length, recreational usage and business needs are all legitimate reasons to consider purchasing a newer vehicle that is better suited to a consumer's driving routine.

Outside Factors
Several outside factors may impact the decision between repairing and replacing a vehicle, such as reduced pricing and special offers from manufacturers. A vehicle that could become a valuable classic might be worthy of extraordinary repairs and maintenance.

If you decide to go with a major repair, be sure to use a qualified and trustworthy auto repair facility. A listing of AAA Approved Auto Repair shops is available at AAA.com/repair.


Experts say the best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop.
 

About Gava's AutoBody
Gava's Autobody is a spacious and well equipped collision repair and paint center. With the latest in state-of-the-art equipment and technology you can count on us to provide unparalleled quality work and the customer service you deserve. 

GAVA'S Paint Shop San Bruno CA
Gava's Autobody
uses a unique state-of-the-art computerized ColorNet paint formula system with a PPG Waterborne Master Mixing System. In today’s market, more automotive manufacturers (OEMS) select new vehicle colors from PPG Waterborne than from any other paint manufacturer. As a worldwide paint supplier, PPG Waterborne is able to match virtually any vehicle color from its vast palette of more than 200,000 formulas.

Unibody Repairs San Bruno CA 
Most of today’s latest cars and some trucks are unibody vehicles, meaning that every part of the vehicle that does not detach, such as the trunk and hood, is part of the frame. Your car's unibody is the basic frame of the vehicle. It makes certain that everything is properly aligned and positioned for the smooth, fluid driving experience that the modern car or truck provides.

Collision Repair San Bruno CA
Gava's Autobody is a spacious and well equipped collision repair and paint center. With the latest in state-of-the-art equipment and technology you can count on us to provide unparalleled quality work and the customer service you deserve.

2 comments:

  1. It all depends on condition of your vehicle whether it is on its last stages or has some hope of repair.

    Collision Repair Vancouver

    ReplyDelete
  2. If the frame’s solid and parts are still easy to find, repairs often make more sense than starting over.

    ReplyDelete