Signs Its Time to Start Looking for a New Car

Many of us have owned (or currently own) a car that is hard to let go of. Whether a trusted friend for years or simply a paid-off pile of junk with no car payment, it was there to stay— maybe for a bit too long. Getting a new car can be a big step and getting rid of an old one can be an equally taxing decision. However, there are some tell-tale signs that it is time to move on. Here are a few examples from your Brigham City auto repair experts at Master Muffler. 

1. Major Repairs

As a driver makes their way into six-figure mileage territory, vehicle wear and tear becomes more apparent. At some point, larger issues begin to arise that prove inconvenient and costly. Examples of large problems include brake line damage, suspension issues, blown head gasket, transmission woes, and engine failure. Repairs such as these at this stage of a car’s life likely cost more than the vehicle is worth. In other words, it’s time for a new car. 

2. All the Small Things

Little nagging repairs are also a sign that a car simply isn’t holding up like it used to. A spark plug replacement here; a leak repair there; it begins to add up after so long. If your dashboard lights are frequently illuminating, prompting small, $100 repairs on a monthly basis, it’s time for a new car. 

3. Car Fails Emissions

As a car ages, its emissions system slowly becomes less efficient. Mufflers, catalytic converters, and exhaust manifolds simply don’t hold up like when they were new. This wear on the exhaust system is a sign of an aging car and will likely lead to repeated emissions test failures. 

4. Fuel Efficiency Continues to Decrease

Now, a car that is well maintained, even if old, should not see a considerable decrease in fuel efficiency. However, history teaches us that maintenance tends to be less of a concern for drivers with aged vehicles. Spark plugs, oxygen sensors, and filters are all components that have a bearing on vehicle performance. If these things are all in bad condition and gas mileage is plummeting, it is an indication that the car is in poor overall health.   

5. Your Friends and Family are Doing Most of the Driving

When pooling together with friends or family, do you often find yourself asking if someone else can drive? Do your friends and family offer without even a thought? This may be due to the fact that your car is clearly not in as good a condition as the others and could be sign that it is time for an upgrade. 

6. You Have ‘Breakdown Anxiety’

This one is possibly the most telling as it involves driver intuition. If you feel major car problems are lurking around the corner or feel unsafe in your vehicle, it is definitely time to explore other options. A little extra cash in the pocket is not worth your safety and the safety of others on the road. 

We Do Auto Repair Right—  the First Time

If you are in need of repairs large or small, we are here to help. Master Muffler Brigham City is a full-service auto care and maintenance shop with decades of collective experience. Some of our customers share experiences of taking their car in for an oil change at another shop and returning with a leak a few days later. Some turn to us for tire pressure adjustments on their newly installed tires— installed by another shop. At Master Muffler, you don’t have to be burdened with follow-up visits for minor repairs. We do it right the first time. Our focus is on quality auto care for each and every customer. For more information on our services, give us a call or pay us a visit today.