Top 7 Things To Consider For Car Replacements
Every Brisbane driver, at some point, faces the age-old question: Should I repair my current car, or is it time to replace it? Whether it’s after a breakdown on the Gateway Motorway or when your mechanic gives you a hefty quote during a routine service, the decision isn’t always simple.
This guide will help you weigh up the key factors so you can make the right choice based on your car’s condition, your lifestyle, and the costs involved.
1. Assess the Repair Costs
Start by getting a clear picture of what needs fixing. A $500 repair job for brakes or suspension may be reasonable on an otherwise reliable vehicle. But if your car needs a new engine, transmission, or multiple major systems replaced, you could be looking at thousands of dollars in repairs. For expensive repairs, owners really need to consider whether they prefer to spend their money on their current car or put that money into a new or newer vehicle.
In our experience, most people will consider moving on from their current car when the repair costs are close to or exceed the market value of the car.
When my customers are facing an expensive repair, I always urge them to consider the cost of likely future repairs. These can’t be reliably predicted, but if the car is old and poorly maintained there is a high likelihood it will need expensive repairs sometime in the future. If you’re in this situation, don’t assume that you will have a trouble-free car after it’s repaired. More likely than not, more repairs are coming.
2. Consider Reliability and Safety
Older vehicles tend to become less reliable, especially if they’ve done high kilometers or haven’t been regularly maintained. Constant trips to the workshop not only cost money – they cost time and peace of mind.
Also consider the safety features your car lacks. Modern vehicles come with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), multiple airbags and improved crash protection. If your car is missing even basic safety tech like ABS or electronic stability control, upgrading might be a smart move – especially if you regularly drive on busy Brisbane roads like the Pacific Motorway or Gympie Arterial.
3. How’s the Car Suited to Your Life Now?
Sometimes the question isn’t just about condition – it’s about fit. Maybe your trusty hatchback has served you well, but now you’ve got kids and need space for prams, bags, and car seats. Or perhaps you’ve started commuting longer distances and need something more fuel efficient or with better tech.
Ask yourself: If I were buying a car today for my current needs, would I choose this one?
4. Fuel Economy and Running Costs
Running costs can quietly drain your wallet over time. Older cars often have poor fuel economy, higher emissions and may cost more to register and insure. With fuel prices fluctuating in Brisbane, a newer vehicle – especially a hybrid or EV – can save you significant money over the long run.
A newer car may also come with capped-price servicing, a factory warranty, and fewer unexpected issues, making it easier to budget your motoring expenses.
5. What’s Your Car Worth?
Look up the private sale or trade-in value of your vehicle using online tools like RedBook or Carsales. If your car still holds decent value and the repairs aren’t too steep, it might be worth holding on to.
On the other hand, if your vehicle is only worth a few thousand dollars and needs ongoing attention, selling or trading it while it’s still running could be the smartest financial move.
6. Emotional Attachment vs Practicality
It’s natural to get attached to a car – maybe it was your first, or it’s been with you through years of Brisbane storms, road trips up the coast, and the daily grind. But emotions can cloud good judgement.
If you find yourself spending too much to keep the car going, and it’s still unreliable, it might be time to let go.
7. The Cost of Replacement
Of course, replacing a car comes with its own price tag. Whether you’re buying new or used, you’ll need to budget for a deposit, loan repayments (if applicable), insurance, stamp duty, and other costs.
However, don’t just look at the purchase price – look at the total cost of ownership over the next five years. In many cases, upgrading to a newer car can work out better in the long term, especially if your current one is past its prime.
Final Thoughts
For Brisbane drivers, the decision to repair or replace a vehicle depends on multiple factors – cost, safety, reliability, and lifestyle. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
If you’re unsure, a trusted mechanic can give you an honest appraisal of your car’s condition and help you understand the likely repair costs coming your way. From there, you can compare that to the benefits of replacing your car with something more modern, efficient and suitable for your current needs.
The key is to approach the decision with a clear head and an eye on the big picture – both financially and practically.
