Time to Upgrade: Tell-Tale Signs You Need a New Car

We know that breaking up with your car can be sad and stressful. Whether it’s the old beater your parents so graciously gifted you when you were 16, the car you made your first “adult” purchase with, or the car that’s surprisingly lasted far past its expiration date, we can all agree it’s not always easy to let go. 

Many car owners love to drive their cars for as long as possible, especially if it’s paid off. However, there are some clear warning signs your car gives you when it’s time to move on to the next. Continue reading to learn more about these signs. 

1. Your Check Engine Light Is Always On

Having your check engine light frequently come on may be an early sign that it’s time for a new car. Constantly having your check engine light on can be dangerous for multiple reasons. For one, it means there is something wrong with your engine. But it also means that in the case something worse happens to your car, your check engine light won’t be able to warn you if it’s already on. A safety hazard like this is a sure sign you need a new car.

2.You’re Spending Too Much Money On Repairs

No one wants to spend more money on repairing their car than what the car is actually worth. Remember, a car is a depreciating asset, and more often than not, the repair costs are going to keep coming. If your car spends more time in a shop than it does on the road, that may be a sign that you need a new car. Save the money you would spend on a repair, and put it towards a new vehicle.

3. Your Car Has Over 100,000 Miles 

If your car is reading a six-digit number on its mileage, chances are you take pretty good care of it. However, with more miles comes more of a chance for error. Cars aren’t meant to last forever, and it’s important to make sure that you’ll still get some money back when it comes time to trade in old-reliable. Instead of spending more money to preserve your well-loved vehicle, this may be a sign to put that money towards a new car with less mileage on it, especially if you’re traveling regularly. 

4. You’re Filling Up Your Gas More Often

It’s no secret that the price of gasoline has risen. When you combine the high price of gas with long commutes, especially in a car that already has low gas mileage, you’re likely going to spend more money filling up your car more often. 

This alone can be a sign you need a new car. Even if you aren’t making car payments on your vehicle, the frequent trips to the gas station may be more costly overall. Fortunately, newer vehicles have become more fuel efficient than their predecessors, so a hefty gas bill may be your sign to get into a new, eco-friendly option. 

5. Your Car is Making Unusual Noises

Odd noises are not something that you should be hearing coming from your vehicle, and should definitely not be ignored. Sounds of grinding, squeaking, or rattling are an indication that something is not working properly in your car, and that it’s not safe to drive. Depending on the state of your vehicle, and the criteria listed in this article, it might be more cost-effective to trade for a newer vehicle.

6. Your Family Is Growing

Although flashy and stylish, your two-seater sports car is not the ideal family vehicle. Imagine trying to fit a carseat in a car with no back seat — it’s impossible. Before your newest edition arrives, you should consider trading in your older vehicle to get a family car. After all, you want your family to be as safe as possible on the road.

Even if you don’t have children, there are plenty of lifestyle changes that warrant getting a new vehicle. Maybe you just got a new job and will be traveling quite a bit. In this case, you’re going to want a roomy vehicle with great gas mileage for all the hours spent on the road. 

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late, Schedule a Test Drive Today

Now that you know hanging on to your old car will end up costing you more money in the long run, you can start looking at new potential vehicles. Here at M&L, we would be happy to help you find the perfect car for your lifestyle needs! Contact us to schedule a test drive so we can get you into your new car today!