With proper maintenance, cars can last many years, but there usually comes a day when it's time to let go. It may be costing more than it’s worth to keep it working efficiently, or maybe the insurance rates have gotten too high to afford. Rather than wait until a junk car breaks down and leaves you without transportation, consider these three signs that it's time to sell your old vehicle for cash.

How Can You Tell If You Have a Junk Car?

1. High Insurance Premiums

Insurance agencies consider many factors when quoting rates, including the vehicle's safety features and repair cost estimates. A car that needs frequent repairs will raise the rate as it becomes evident that the vehicle is unreliable and potentially unsafe. Older vehicles tend to have higher insurance premiums even if they are in good repair because parts stop being made and become more difficult and expensive to replace. If the insurance rates for the vehicle are becoming a drain on your wallet, it may be more cost-effective to swap it for a newer model with lower premiums.

3. Costly Repairs

It can be tempting to keep a favorite old car running with regular repairs, but this may actually end up costing more than the car is worth. If the car experiences recurring issues—such as alternator failure, starter breakdown, a frequent dead battery, or knocking in the engine—and repairs don't make them go away, it likely won't last much longer. Selling it to a junk car buyer while it's still in reasonable condition may earn you more cash than waiting, and it will save you the cost of futile repairs.

4. Frequent Breakdowns

If a vehicle frequently breaks down altogether while being driven, this is usually an indicator of persistent mechanical or electrical failure caused by an underlying issue that standard repairs can't fix. There are at least 69 million vehicle breakdowns each year in the U.S., often keeping people from work, home, or friends and family, as well as endangering their safety. Consider selling your car now rather than waiting for its final breakdown to leave you stranded on the side of the road.

If you're ready to part with an old or unreliable vehicle, bring it to T&S Auto Salvage in Thomasville, NC. This scrapyard purchases junk cars of all ages, as well as a wide variety of metals and parts. They also offer used car parts at affordable rates, and their team prides itself on helping customers in any way possible. If you'd like to learn more, visit their website, or call (336) 882-7989 to speak with a team member.