to sell or not to sell

[Kent McLean]

Brad Russell wrote:
>I've got an 84 4000 S Quattro, with 210k miles. ... It seems like all I
>will be
>doing from now on will be replacing items like this, high priced ones. The
>suspension is about due for some new pieces. Needs a new windshield. Hood
>needs repaint, A/C and cruise don't function.

Make a list of the pros and cons, and decide from there.
Just remember you're dealing with a car that is almost
20 years old.

Take a serious assessment of what it needs. How much will it
cost to put it right? Where can you save money? Do you really
need A/C, or would rolled down windows keep you cool?  Cruise
is nice, but only for those 4 trips a year; the car will run fine
without it.

What are your alternatives? Unless you are going to buy a new
car (Montana.edu probably wants whatever money you have),
you're looking at a used car. And any used car will have its
share of problems.  Sell your Audi to buy a Toyota, only to find
the Toyota needs a clutch?  The devil you know is better than
the devil you don't.

If you really like the car, put your money into fixing those
things that make it run -- replace the windshield; replace the
shocks and maybe the springs; replace hoses, filters, fluids;
replace spark plugs, wires, and tune-up items. You'll have a
solid, reliable car. Then as time, money, skill, or friendships
permit, fix the things that make it nice.  Maybe polishing
compound will bring back the paint. Maybe a little sanding
and a spray can of color-matched paint will make it look a
whole lot better without costing more than the car is worth.
Maybe the A/C just needs to be recharged. Maybe a junk
yard (recycle center) will yield a replacement compressor
to fix the A/C.

As difficult as it may be, put aside $25/week to address those
unforeseen repairs.

With my car, every time I have a big repair, I tell myself it is
cheaper than a new car payment (or three).

HTH,
Kent
'89 200 TQ, "Bad Puppy" with 220K miles