How to Know It's Time For a New Car

It's a big decision, so how do you know it's time for a new car?

The longer you drive your car and the older it gets, the lower its resale value will be when you're ready to sell it. So it's time to assess your options: is it better to keep your vehicle for a few more years, or will trading it in now make your life easier? What if the car won't fetch much on a trade-in? Could you possibly get cash for your car first then use it as a deposit for a new one?

Other clues you should consider buying a new car

Rego Inspection Fails

A valid inspection pass is required to operate your car legally. If you keep going year after year and still don't pass and need to spend money on repairs, it might be time for you and your car to part ways. You can pay for the repairs as a short-term fix to receive the inspection pass, but it may be more cost-effective to consider moving on if the problem persists.

You're Perpetually Breaking Down

Is it worth it to worry about getting home safely every time you go out? Your breakdowns may be mild and easily remedied right now, but what if they start to escalate? What if you get stuck in the middle of a storm on a deserted back road with no mobile service? A new car could save you the worry and danger of driving a car that breaks down frequently.

Your Car Lacks the Necessary Safety Features

Vehicle technology developments are accompanied by advancements in safety features. You may not require remote start or Bluetooth, but how about a backup camera? Even if your backup camera only prevents one possible scratch or mishap, it will significantly impact your safety and the condition of your vehicle.

Your Vehicle Requires Constant Refuelling

If your vehicle needs to be refuelled frequently and you notice a loss in acceleration and power, your car's gasoline pump may malfunction. A broken fuel pump is costly to repair.

As newer vehicle models hit the market, their fuel efficiency outperforms older models. If your car's fuel efficiency isn't what it used to be, and you're finding yourself at the petrol station more frequently, it could be an indication that you need to upgrade.

Your Car Insurance Premiums Continue To Rise

Unfortunately, the older your car grows, the more likely it will break down. As a result, your insurance provider may begin to view your car as a rising liability, raising the rate you must pay to insure your vehicle.

Suppose your vehicle is getting old and your costs are rising (including the cost of repairs, the insurance premium you must pay, and the money spent on regular refuelling). In that case, it may be time to trade it in for a new one, so you don't have to worry about your bills' growing quantity and cost.

Your Car Has Logged a Lot of Kilometres

When a car reaches high on the clock, its chances of breaking down begin to rise. A vehicle typically has issues after the odometer reaches the high six-digit mark.

These could include spark plug problems, coolant corrosion, or combustion chamber turbulence. However, it also depends on how the car has been serviced and the parts used.

So, if your vehicle has logged high kilometres, it could be time to upgrade, especially if it hasn't been well-maintained.

Car Envy

And lastly, car envy is a thing for some! Each year, as models are revised, you may see something that catches your eye and makes you think it is time to upgrade and be the envy of your friends! If you can afford it, go for it!