Almost a classic car

The problem I have is that if I own something for a long time, I tend to personify it. That car is like an old friend - we've been through a lot together.
Unless you have a very short life, this car is not going to make it to the end with you.

Find a new car that suits you and learn to love it. Or get a lease and become best friends.

It’s time to stop spending good money on a car that has many things that no longer work.

You need a safe vehicle!
 
The corrosion around the junction block is a disaster waiting to happen. The corroded short lines on 3 wheels look like they would need to be torched to even get the nut to turn. One line is wet and that will probably be the first to give out. Odd how the one replaced wheel line is metal - usually don’t see that.
I believe they are giving you a fair analysis.
I am always on the side of keeping older cars going, especially if they are of good quality like Toyota/Honda/Subaru. I spent $4k on maintenance for my 15 year old F150 pickup last year, because to replace it with a similar model would be about $60k. No way I am doing that.
 
This is a message the garage emailed to me. It has a video of the underside of my car with mechanic's narration. Opinions requested.

https://app.mykaarma.com/service-cart/mpi/bBQ_HSZDLFeykd5rki90UpdB6vBtcZGtBFy6GSMV9X0/detail
My opinion is yes there's lots of corrosion. Is something about to burst? Who knows. The wet line is for sure an issue, even if it doesn't burst a slow leak will cause a loss of brake fluid and eventually loss of brakes. The good news is most cars after the 1960s feature dual reservoirs for brake fluid, so if you blow a front brake line you still have back brakes.

I'll say this, $2,200 to replace all the lines and the junction box probably isn't a terrible price, it's a bit of a job and the corrosion and rust make it a bit harder.
 
Only you know what your finances are & how much you are willing to pay. Not likely you will get much for your "antique" So shopping for a new car you might as well figure on paying the full price plus state taxes. Then what works best paying cash or in payments?
I think you are pretty good with spread sheets so use that ability to be able to help you decide.

I wouldn't feel good selling the car to someone that isn't able to afford much. Especially with the brake system needing repaired. Trade it with a dealership so that if resold you shouldn't have any responsibility if the brakes do fail for a new owner.
 
Last edited:
Back
Top