We are a retired couple in our 70's and will be going down to one car soon. The wife's car is a 2002 Chevrolet Blazer Xtreme (2wheel drive). We just turned over 68,244 original miles on it. Since we've owned it we have replaced the fuel pump, wiper motor, and an O2 sensor. It's on its second set of tires that were put on three years ago. They are Toyo tires with an 80,00 mile treadwear rating. What I am concerned about is its age. After about 20 years, bolts start loosening, welds crack, metal stresses, etc start taking their toll. Would it be wiser for us to keep the Blazer and repair it as repairs warrant or should we purchase a newer car with low mileage? I am looking at a Camry or a Lincoln. What would be the better choice?
@darzbox
The one thing that's certain is the car has depreciated to about the lowest value it will do. If you can see nothing wrong with the car keep it! If it pulls well, stops well and isn't costing you a fortune in parts then you're doing well! Selling it and getting a brand new car is an awful decision financially.
@darzbox
Agreed
if I were you I would just drive the car to the wheels fell off and then if they did I would buy a camera then and it will probably be the last car you ever bought
At this point the Blazer doesn't owe you anything. It sound like you have taken good care of it. Normal maintenance is all it should need for years. The engines are good for 2-300 thousand with good maintenance. The intake manifold gaskets are only major cost on the engine. Maintaining it is still cheaper than a car payment. If it were mine I would replace the water pump, intake manifold gaskets, and thermostat before they start to leak just because of age. Use good oil and filters and you will be in good shape.
I hope you find this helpful.
I would do the same thing. Keep driving it, and put what you would pay in a car payment aside to save.
When it does get to a point where a cost value benefit analysis does not make sense to keep it, you will not only
have saved up some money for the new one but gotten the full use out of it. Camry and it will be the last car you
may need to buy. Looking for a used Lincoln Continental (only that model low mileage etc) will give you a good ride
and if you have it checked out and it is good it is a good car also.
