This definitely applies to our sewing machines, but here we’re going to be talking about cars.
Since retirement, we’ve “invested” in keeping my 8 year old SUV with 135,000 miles in good repair. Our thinking, guided by our mechanic, has been it’s cheaper to repair than to shell out $45-$60k for a new vehicle right now. In theory, that makes total sense until you get stranded one too many times or the amount you’re spending on car repair no longer makes sense. I’ve been advocating for new wheels ever since my SUV started acting crazy last summer and left me stranded several times. (I used AAA 3 times for a battery jump over a six month period). It took today’s bill for a catalytic converter and EVAP purge valve replacement for hubs to finally agree it’s time to start looking look for my next vehicle. The plan is continue driving it until the next time it needs more than routine maintenance. I’d rather be proactive and have a replacement vehicle in mind so we’re not scrambling should we need to move quickly to replace my SUV.
My previous two vehicles were an Acura and a Lincoln. They were a better deal than their Honda and Ford siblings, which is why we bought them. I loved driving both of those vehicles. Unfortunately, “luxury” brands are more expensive to maintain and repair. This time, I think I’ll stick with the plain vanilla Toyota or Mazda that my mechanic recommended.
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