I want some input from any reader of this blog.
I am stuck with making a decision in the near future. I currently own and (reluctantly) drive a 1997 Nissan Maxima with about 135k miles on it. This car has served me well: got me through the second half of college, ferried me across the country last year when I moved from Alabama to Arizona and put up with a 45 mile daily commute to work for about 7 months. But it is getting to the point where I am sinking lots of money into repairing it. In the past 3 months alone I have: replaced the brake calipers, rotors, and pads ($500); replaced the CV axles ($400); and put a new starter in - for the 3rd time in the 4 years I have owned the car ($250).
Aside from the pain of knowing I could have built an AWESOME commuter bike with that money, it stings to keep putting money into something I don't really use that much anymore.
The truth is, I cannot completely give up owning a car (yet...). If I could, I would have tried to win New Belgium Brewery's "Follow Your Folly" contest and been given a brand new, custom built Surly commuter. So, I am looking at buying a new (to me) car.
Should I buy a newer car with plans of keeping it for 10 years? Or do I just buy something a few years old knowing I will have to sink money into it occasionally, but won't pay much up front?
I would be interested to know what suggestions or comments anyone who reads this blog would have. Feel free to leave a comment telling me your situation, or what you recommend, or what your friends do...whatever.
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10 comments:
Jeff,
If I were you (and if you could afford it), I'd see if I could find a 2004 Toyota Prius.
You'll save money by getting an older model car that is highly reliable and awesome on fuel. You'll also save on insurance, as the Prius' safety features often produce lower rates.
It's got plenty of room in the hatch, though you may not be able to fit everything you own there...
Take my advice with a Pluto-sized grain of salt, but I'd say go with a car that'll last you a while. It'll be cheaper in the long run.
The last time I bought a vehicle, 2 years ago, I had a really difficult time finding a used Prius, except for ones with pretty high mileage on them. It may be different now that the Prius has had several model years under its belt.
I ended up buying a "certified pre-owned" Volvo S40, and have enjoyed the peace of mind knowing that it had a thorough inspection/checkup done before it was put on the lot. I have had very few problems with it.
I am new to bicycle commuting, and started doing it a couple of times per week here in Tucson right about the time that your blog started. My job takes me to Phoenix once or twice per week, so car-free is not an option for me - but I'm aiming for car-lite, and so far the certified pre-owned vehicle has given me very few problems - mostly minor things that wear out from time to time.
Love the blog, please keep it up.
How much do you need the car? Is it financially comparable to rent when it's needed?
anonymous,
Used Prius' are a lot easier to find (in Eastern NC, anyway) than even last year.
I've always had a thing for Volvos, though...Very nice machine!
I'd recommend the older car, if you won't be driving it a ton. Get something that still get's decent gas mileage, but don't spend too much and be sure to pay cash, no loans.
I bought a Honda Civic '95 where the guy had swapped the engine for a v-tech. We get about 40mpg (highway and city average) and it only cost us $3000, and Honda repair work is cheap.
Prius' might be a good idea, but don't buy new and don't take out a loan.
Also, maybe look into renting or ride sharing
thanks for all the comments everybody - i will be sure to leave a post if i ever make a decision...
Is there a FlexCar option where you are? That could solve your conundrum quite neatly. Val
Bfine stole my thunder. If car is chosen, buy a Honda. Nobody ever lost money on a Honda...
I am going through the same problem. My 95 Accord needs a new engine, and it's not worth sinking $3k into i, is there. I'm not ready to go carfree either, because my work requires me 50+ miles away everyday.
I would go with a newer used car thats good with fuel, even if you aren't going to drive it much. That way, you'll have something that will last 10+ years, OR something that will hold resale value if you do decide to go carfree. (Plus the newer car should (SHOULD) need fewer repairs than something older.
rideshare is a great idea! can you carpool with someone from your work and give them gas money?
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