What to Do When Your Car is at a Dealership for Repairs and You’re Considering a New One

When your vehicle breaks down and ends up at a dealership for repair, you might find yourself in a difficult position. Is it time to consider buying a new car, but not from the same dealership? This article will guide you through the process, from understanding repair estimates to making alternative purchasing decisions.

Understanding Repair Estimates and Your Options

If the repair estimate at the dealership seems too high to justify the cost, you have the option to pay for the estimate and have the car towed home. Once you have the car, you can shop around for another dealership or negotiate with the same one to see if they can offer the car to you as a trade-in. Many dealerships will even arrange for a tow at their expense if you want to buy from them.

Consider the Reliability and Value of Your Current Car

Not all cars are worth repairing. When faced with the decision, you need to assess if the car you currently have is worth more in its current state or if it needs to be replaced. For example, a 2003 Infiniti with 160,000 miles might be reaching the point where it requires more frequent and costly repairs. It might be a better option to consider a new car that suits your needs.

Reliable Used Cars and New Car Alternatives

There are many reliable used cars out there that can serve you well for years to come. For instance, a 2002 Lexus with 140,000 miles and no issues might be a perfect choice. Similarly, a 2018 Honda with 34,000 miles, also showing no problems, can be a great second car. These cars have proven reliability and can provide you with reliable transportation without the initial cost of a new car.

What to Do If You Don’t Want the Dealership to Repair Your Car

If you decide that the repair estimate is too high and you prefer to purchase a new car, here are some steps you can take:

Pay for the Estimate and Towing: Pay the estimate at the dealership and have the car towed home. This gives you the flexibility to shop around for a better deal elsewhere.Shop Around for the Best Deal: Research and compare the costs at different dealerships to find the best deal. The total cost should include the lowest price for the new car and any additional expenses like financing or taxes.Consider Trading the Car: If you sell your current car, make sure you get the best possible deal. If you sell it back to the same dealership where it is currently, they might offer more money since they have already evaluated it. However, if you choose to sell it elsewhere, you will likely have to arrange for transportation, which can be additional expense.Be Prepared to Pay Your Debts: If you have authorized repairs, you are legally required to pay for them. Even if you feel the charges are unreasonable, you must address the issue through proper channels, such as small claims court, and not simply skip payment.Consider a Trade as Part Payment: You can negotiate with the dealership to offer your car as part payment for a new one. Be prepared for the dealership to offer you a significantly lower value than the car's market value and potential auction sell price. They will likely charge you for storage and other fees.Consider a Private Sale: Selling your car privately can provide you with the highest total price. Alternatively, you can keep your car and offset the cost of repairs, although this could lead to higher ongoing costs.

Conclusion

When your car is at a dealership for repairs and you're considering a new one, it's important to be thorough in your decision-making process. Evaluating the reliability of your current car, understanding the repair estimates, and considering alternative options can help you make an informed choice. Whether you opt to sell or keep your car, the key is to be strategic and mindful of the total costs involved.