Buying a new vehicle is a significant decision, and it’s understandable if you want to wait until you find the perfect new or used car before getting rid of the current one. However, every vehicle has a limited life span, and there are a few signs that you should get a new ride sooner rather than later. Below are a few situations that signal it’s time to invest in a new vehicle.

How to Tell When You Need a New Car

1. Frequent Repairs

While all vehicles will encounter minor issues throughout the years, needing repairs every few months signals a steady degradation of the car’s condition. If the vehicle has required multiple repairs — especially large ones like radiator or transmission work — over the past year, it’s nearing the end of its drivable life span, as crucial components will continue to wear out.

2. Hard-To-Find Parts

Older vehicle models may have parts that the manufacturer no longer makes. If you need to replace a rare component, it could take weeks to find a replacement in good condition. This leaves you without a ride until the repair is completed, and you could be left with a hefty bill for the part and labor required.

3. Inadequate Size or Function

Another sign that it’s time to look for a quality new or used car is that the current vehicle no longer meets your needs, either because it’s too small or can’t perform tasks you need it to, like haul items. For instance, a two-door sports car you got after college likely isn’t ideal if you’ve gotten married and had kids or have a job in construction or farming. You’ll benefit from a ride with more space and safety features for your family or a model that can handle rough terrain and hauling.

4. Extensive Damage

Extensive damage includes severe auto body or part problems, such as widespread rust, a cracked engine block, or damaged transmission gears. These problems come with significant age or neglect, and they can cost more than the car is worth to fix. At that point, you would sink money into it that you’ll never get back, and you’d still have to get a new ride when the current one fails entirely.

If it’s time for you to get a new vehicle, trade your current one for cash at Stewart’s Used Auto Parts in Barkhamsted, CT. Since 1982, the locally owned and operated salvage yard has paid cash for junk and used cars. If your vehicle still has life and just needs repairs, they also offer a broad inventory of affordable used auto parts. Explore their used car recycling program online, or call (860) 379-7541 to learn more about their offerings.