Some people grow quite an attachment to their vehicles, and they might even give them little nicknames. As a result of this bond, individuals have trouble giving up their vehicles. However, the following signs all indicate that it is time to junk your old car.

Spending Too Much Money

One of the reasons that people choose to have an old car as opposed to a new one is to save money on an expensive down payment and monthly payments. If you find that you are putting hundreds, or maybe even thousands, of dollars into your car on a fairly regular basis, then it certainly is not saving you money. Those funds could be going toward the purchase of a new vehicle or at least a newer vehicle.

Damages That Can’t Be Fixed

Sometimes, cars are in accidents, and they simply are not able to drive properly anymore. Internal damages could be occurring that no one is able to see or solve. Just as with all things in life, cars grow old, and they expire. They simply are not able to handle any more wear and tear. These vehicles are not only annoying and problematic, but they are also unsafe to drive.

Problems with Mold or Mildew

After a serious storm or a flood, a lot of people experience severe damage to their cars. When water sits around in a vehicle for too long or an excessive amount gets into it, mold or mildew, or both of these nasty little agents, can start to grow inside. These substances do not only smell terrible, but they can also cause diseases in a person’s lungs or respiratory system. It simply is not safe to drive around in such cars, and it absolutely is not the most comfortable situation either.

It Won’t Pass Inspection

Maybe you have heard of a vehicle that was permanently stuck on its check engine light. Generally, a car with the check engine light on cannot pass inspection, and a host of other reasons exist why the vehicle might not make it through. An expired inspection can land you a seriously large ticket, so it is not worth it to drive around in a car that is not going to make it through. Instead of paying the inspection fee, take that extra money and start saving up to purchase a vehicle that is much safer and more reliable.

Thinking about junking your car might be a bit annoying. After all, you do not want to lose all of your money on it. Fortunately, you could look into selling the car for parts. Call a few autobody shops to find out about the possibilities, and you may be able to make a bit of money on the vehicle.

Peter Wendt is a freelance writer and researcher living and working in Austin, Texas.  Over the years he’s run several cars until they break down, and he is very familiar with the warning signs.  If you notice any of these signs, Peter recommends that you donate your car in Austin, it’s the most hassle-free way to get rid of an old clunker or junker.

Print This Page / Download PDF / Email This Page