This may have crossed your mind several times already; should you finally sell your car and get another one? But another question just as valid as this is: WHEN should you sell your car? One of the first signs your car is telling you to get rid of it soon is mechanical problems.
If you hear knocking, clicking, grinding, or clunking, these are indications that your car may be headed to that Big Junkyard in the Sky. Sounds such as these are warning indicators that there may be serious problems with your car and could mean expensive repair bills down the line.
Another indicator that your car is ripe for selling is when you are constantly experiencing overheating issues. This can mean a number of things such as a failing water pump, bad radiator, or a cooling system that is on its last legs. But there are other reasons as well.
BoredomEven if your car is in great shape, you may have become bored with it. It’s no longer fun to drive or own. If this has been nagging at you for three or more years, you have the symptoms of new car fever.
The car you presently own may have been purchased from a purely economical angle; you only had so much money and this was the best you could afford. While the car has served you well, you can now afford a better one.
Just be sure that the next car you buy will have enough fun value and features to justify the purchase, and that you have the means to comfortably buy another car.
Electronic Stability ControlThis relatively new technology helps drivers to keep control of their cars when driving in slippery conditions such as wet roads, ice, etc. ESC has become mandatory in all vehicles manufactured from 2012 and after.
This standard safety feature is important in hazardous driving conditions. Joseph Henmueller, president of the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association said:
“If your current car doesn’t have it, that’s another sign it’s time to sell. It actually saves many more lives each year than a backup camera.”
If safety is high on your list for car features, and your car doesn’t have ESC, it may be good enough reason to sell your old car for a later model.
An Offer You Can’t RefuseEvery once in a while you’ll see a legitimate car deal so good that it’s very hard to pass up. If your car has done its duty over the years and needs to be put out to pasture for retirement, or re-purposing (pass it on to your kid), then snap up the opportunity and get a new car.
But as with any major purchase, if you have a significant other, check with him or her to get the green light. If your finances aren’t in order or your decision to buy a new car causes strife in the family, it may be a better idea to just drop the subject until a better time.
Source:
U.S. News