After many miles of driving, cars begin to show wear and tear that may require repairs beyond their value. While you may not want to give up your vehicle, a new car is safer, more reliable, and will get you where you need to go without a hitch. Here are five signs it is time for a new ride.

When to Buy a New Car

1. Safety

If your vehicle is no longer safe, head to a car dealer for a new one. When you and passengers are afraid to travel in your ride, or you’ve experienced multiple breakdowns, a new car is best. Older cars are also not equipped with safety features such as airbags, rear cameras, collision alerts, and blind spot alarms that improve driver safety.

2. Expensive Repairs & Breakdowns

If you’re facing frequent repairs and constant breakdowns or expensive fixes that exceed the car’s value, it is time for a new ride. A car only worth a thousand dollars doesn’t benefit from a pricey engine and transmission repair that may cost more than its total value. Also, more than two breakdowns a year and the associated costs are strong indicators that you need to trade in old reliable.

3. Excess Emissions

When the vehicle doesn’t pass environmental emissions tests, it is too outdated to be on the road. New cars are built to be better for the planet with technology that makes them a cleaner ride. 

4. Poor Fuel Efficiency

When you have a gas guzzler, you’re not only spending a lot of money at the pump, but you are also using more fuel than necessary to get where you need to go. Older cars are not as fuel efficient and don’t have the updates that new models do to get better mileage.

5. Life Changes

If children are now in the picture, you must consider car seats and other kid necessities. Once the kids are grown, you may be able to downsize. Any changes to your life will affect the car you drive every day.

Located in Hardin, IL, Hurley Dodge is the car dealer to trust when you are ready to purchase a new car. Their extensive inventory of Dodge® cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans helps you find the perfect vehicle for your needs. They also offer repair and maintenance services to keep your new ride in top shape for longer. To view their current inventory, visit them online or on Facebook. Call (618) 576-2225 to speak with a helpful team member.