It’s sitting there again. Your old car. Same spot in the driveway, same check engine light glowing like it owns the place. Maybe it won’t start. Maybe it’s making strange sounds. Or maybe you’re just tired of sinking money into something that doesn’t seem to give back. Whatever the case, the big question is staring you down: Should I fix this thing… or just sell it as is?
You’re not alone. We get calls all the time from people stuck at this exact crossroad. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are a few key things to consider that can help you make the right call—for your wallet and your sanity.
What’s Actually Wrong With It?
Start by getting a clear picture of the problem. If the car won’t start, is it just a dead battery or something more serious like a transmission failure? You’d be surprised how many people think their car is “done for” when it just needs a new alternator or a couple of hoses.
If you’re unsure, getting a mechanic’s opinion can be worth it. Yes, even if you’re leaning toward selling—it helps you know what you’re working with. We’ve seen cars get scrapped over minor issues that could’ve been fixed for a couple hundred bucks.
Do the Repairs Cost More Than the Car Is Worth?
This one’s pretty straightforward. If your car is worth $3,000 on a good day but needs $4,000 in repairs, it doesn’t make much financial sense to keep it going—unless it holds sentimental value.
We once towed a 2005 sedan for a customer who got quoted $5,500 to replace the engine. The car’s resale value? Around $2,000. He sold it for scrap on the spot and walked away with cash in his hand instead of a hefty mechanic bill. It hurt a little, sure—but not as much as throwing good money after bad.
Are Repairs Becoming More Frequent?
Here’s the thing about old cars: once they start breaking down regularly, they don’t usually stop. If you’ve already replaced the radiator, alternator, and fuel pump in the last year, chances are the next part is just waiting its turn.
You might patch one problem, only for another to pop up a month later. If you’re constantly visiting your mechanic more than your mates, it might be time to part ways.
How’s Your Lifestyle Right Now?
Let’s be real—sometimes it’s not about the car, but about you. Maybe you don’t have time to deal with repairs, or the stress of uncertainty is affecting your daily routine. Maybe your job now requires a more reliable vehicle, or your family has grown and the two-door hatchback just isn’t cutting it.
If the car no longer fits your needs or your lifestyle, fixing it might be a band-aid rather than a real solution.
Can You Sell It As-Is and Still Get Something for It?
The good news? Even broken-down cars still have value. Whether it’s for parts, scrap metal, or resale by a wrecker, someone out there will be willing to take it off your hands—and pay for it.
That’s where we come in. We work with local buyers who purchase old or non-running vehicles every day. You won’t get new-car prices, but you will get quick cash without the headache of trying to repair or list it online. No “tyre kickers,” no long-winded negotiations—just a clean break.
How Attached Are You to the Car?
We’ve had people call us with tears in their eyes saying goodbye to their first car. And that’s completely understandable. If the vehicle has sentimental value, and you’re okay with spending a bit more to keep it alive, go for it. There’s nothing wrong with holding on to something that means a lot to you—as long as you’re doing it with open eyes and a realistic budget.
But if the emotional attachment is the only thing keeping it around? It might be worth a final photo and a proper farewell.
So, What’s the Bottom Line?
Ask yourself this: If you fix it, do you trust it to last? And if you sell it, are you ready to move on?
If the car’s a money pit, costing more than it’s worth, or just doesn’t fit your life anymore—selling it could bring you peace of mind and some cash in your pocket. On the other hand, if the repairs are reasonable and the car still has a few solid years left, giving it a second chance could be worth it.
Either way, we’re here to help. Whether you need a tow to the repair shop or want to get rid of it today, no pressure, no judgment—just honest support from people who know cars and care about helping you make the smart move.
Your old car might have had a good run. The next chapter? That’s up to you.
If you are in Essendon, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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