7 Signs That Tell You It's Time to Replace Your Old Car

Filipinos are big on sentimental value. We're very much used to becoming extremely attached to our possessions, especially those that we worked so hard to achieve, like a first car, for instance. The sad news is that no matter if you’ve taken excellent care of your beloved ride over the years, or how many special memories it holds, it will eventually reach the end of its lifespan and must then be put out to pasture, so to speak. It's a tragedy, but eventually, it needs to be done.

So how can you tell if it's time to finally let go and look for a replacement? Below are seven signs that say so.

Stuttering starts and stops

A faulty transmission is expensive to replace. If abrupt lunges and or unexpected pauses in acceleration have become the norm, it will be wiser to buy a new car than to have the transmission fixed.

Fluids are leaking everywhere

Much like you, your car needs vital fluids to stay alive. If your garage floor is starting to look like a Jackson Pollock painting comprised of drips of coolant, engine oil, brake fluid, etc., then it’s only a question of when and not if it will run its last mile.

The dashboard lights are on

Does your dashboard look like it’s celebrating the Christmas season with all the colored lights on the gauge cluster? The lights are actually symbols that tell you that there's something wrong with your vehicle, and the more of them you see, the bigger the trouble you are in. So when the 'Check Engine' and/or 'Oil Pressure' light up, have the problem diagnosed immediately. If the damage is irreparable, save yourself the trouble and start saving up for your next car instead.

A major rust issue

Rust can only get worse, so if you already have several panels riddled with rust holes, or if a huge part of your floor already gave way, don't bother covering the damage up.

Engine knock

When the engine starts knock-knock-knocking, it's probably time to introduce it to heaven’s door. A knocking engine is a sign that the camshaft no longer turns in sync with the pistons, and the entire engine assembly will have to be replaced.

White exhaust smoke

White exhaust smoke can mean a lot of things--a damaged or warped cylinder head, cracked engine block, or melted head gasket are just some of the primary causes--none of which are good. Also, more often than not, they signal that major problems still lie ahead. If you observe white exhaust smoke, get ready to hear that your coolant system is failing and your engine is constantly overheating.

Repair costs are more than the car's worth

When the repair quote costs more than your car's current fair market value, it's definitely time to give up on your vehicle. It has had its run, now it's finally time to lay it to rest.