The older the car, the bigger the “aches and pains“. Rust in the wheel arch, a defective water pump or repairing the clutch can cost a lot of money. Sooner or later, many used car owners ask themselves whether the investment is worth it at all still worth it.
Get multiple quotes for the repair
Many car owners have a workshop they trust. However, especially for more expensive repairs, it can be worthwhile More offers to catch up. Because a different amount is often due for the same service. Mainly between an authorized workshop and an independent workshop significant price differences. It's usually worth going to an independent workshop if you're buying a used car. Here the working hours are a little cheaper and the mechanics don't just specialize in one brand. Clutch, water pump or timing chain but will still leave a noticeable hole in the budget. Four-figure sums are no longer uncommon when the used car no longer runs smoothly. A certain level of protection against unplanned and high costs is offered Insurance for repair costs, which covers the material and labor time. Then the question doesn't even arise as to whether repairing the used car is still worth it.
Consider general condition and residual value
If an expensive repair is needed on a used car, this should be done at the same time General condition of the car must be taken into account. If at the last Main inspection by TÜV If various defects have already been identified, an expensive investment in the used car is worthwhile often not anymore. However, if the vehicle is still in good general condition, a one-off repair is often worthwhile. The investment costs should always be in line with the Residual value of the vehicle be compared. There are now various platforms on the Internet for this purpose. Based on the year of manufacture, mileage and other general factors, the residual value can be determined in a very short time. Are the repair costs? above the residual value, the investment is definitely not worth it.
Adhere to service intervals and prevent damage
In addition to the main inspection at the TÜV, you can also have regular inspections Service intervals retain. The vehicle service is not mandatory, but still highly recommended. This will changed the oil, fluid levels are checked and the air conditioning system is serviced. In total there are around 50 inspection points, which are processed during service on the car. If you want to go as long as possible without repairs, regular checks are highly recommended. Also the car Care and the right one driving behavior are crucial to avoid expensive repairs. Always let the engine warm up before putting any strain on the car. After cold start the friction on the cylinders increases. In the worst case scenario, this will lead to one in the long run engine failure.
The way food is Clutch you shouldn't let it slide. The clutch disc rubs against the engine flywheel. The wear and tear multiplies. If the clutch is defective, repair costs in the four-digit range await you. The vehicle is especially in winter prone to rust. Road salt and moisture cause the bodywork to be attacked. Regular Washing prevents road salt from attacking the wheel arch or axle. You should therefore never go there in winter Underbody washing forget. If rust spreads, you need to act quickly. The "first aid“ is usually still cheap and the amount of work is limited. However, once rust affects the bodywork, high costs also arise.
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