Could it be time to move on?

babaUK

I have a 55 reg Citroen C4 automatic. I have had if for nearly three years and has been reliable. Apart from routine costs eg brakes, tyres, service it has been reasonable to run in terms of costs. However this year I have so far spent £440 on fixing the heating and fan problem. It is now due the following work
-timing belt and water pump change @ £320
- service @ £140
- mot @ £54
- steering rods +/- £120
Total £634
The costs mentioned would have been incurred by end of May meaning that totals costs since January would be £1034.


With these certain costs is it worthwhile to keep the car or perhaps get rid of it. If I am to replace it my budget is £2000 for a new automatic car. I will appreciate your views on this.

Many thanks.

TeamPlum

I don't quite follow your maths - you'd be spending more on a car than you would on repairs.

£2000 wouldn't get you much newer, or any more reliable IMO.

DKLS

Could be a case for better the devil you know.

You could find a peach of a car for 2k or you could find a car just itching to throw a big bill in your direction.

jimjames

The only non routine bit (and even that is debatable) is £120. All of the others are standard servicing that you expect on any car so should budget for accordingly. Far cheaper to keep your existing car, any new one may have more problems which is why the owner is selling.

SpekySquarehead

I agree with what jimjames says.

Unless you're buying the car from someone you know and trust, with a full service history etc then I would keep the car.

babaUK

Thanks for taking time to respond. I appreciate your views and will certainly consider everything in making the final decision.

grumbler

babaUK wrote: »

...
- mot @ £54

Is it not £30 at Kwik Fit and Halfords?

londonTiger

the work you're required to do is the same work that is required on all cars. Most £2000-£3000 cars you will buy will have impending cambelt/brake service due. This is because during the last few years of ownership people fall out of love with their cars and delay work on their cars.

Hintza

Could cut back on the service and just do oil and filters, with a visual check of other items.

If the cam belt is due I would get that done.

You can pick up steering rods a lot cheaper.

Are you still using a main dealer for servicing? Try an indy mechanic.

babaUK

I currently use independent garage that specialise in Citroens and Peugeot cars.

mark5

babaUK wrote: »

I have a 55 reg Citroen C4 automatic. I have had if for nearly three years and has been reliable. Apart from routine costs eg brakes, tyres, service it has been reasonable to run in terms of costs. However this year I have so far spent £440 on fixing the heating and fan problem. It is now due the following work
-timing belt and water pump change @ £320
- service @ £140
- mot @ £54
- steering rods +/- £120
Total £634
The costs mentioned would have been incurred by end of May meaning that totals costs since January would be £1034.


With these certain costs is it worthwhile to keep the car or perhaps get rid of it. If I am to replace it my budget is £2000 for a new automatic car. I will appreciate your views on this.

Many thanks.

At those figures I would get the work done and keep it. My mate sitting next to me who's in to bangers says he would change the oil and filter, steering rods and mot it, basically he would spend the minimum and see how long it lasts!