Repair or Replace; You Decide!?

-----Original Message-----
From: Aldo M
Sent: Sunday, March 22, 2009 8:42 AM
To: info@raauto.com
Subject: Nice to have you back !!
 
Hi Ron:  Thanks for addressing my email on the air yesterday, Saturday.  I'd like your further opinion to something you mentioned. 
 
Assuming that the vibration is repaired as was described [replacing the U Joints], it seems apparent that
the Water Pump is making on & off again chirping noises, the serpentine belt will need to be replaced;
a Check Engine light on/off again for Oxy sensors, I do believe that a slight "thumping" noise
when going over ruts in the road is a trailing arm/bushing issue or CV Joints ??, should I keep
investing $$$ into the Pathfinder with 114K miles?? I did put new tires on, and new spark plugs
about 7 weeks ago.  {I would NOT have done the new tires, if this Vibration issue was present
before the installation}.  She does like to "drink" gasoline at the premium level, has some squeaks /
rattles, one bad rear driver's side window motor [2 others operate slowly at times], a stuck plug in
the X-fer case as mentioned, but the engine and general ride is very good; she runs like a
top in that regard, - she doesn't burn a drop of Oil.... 
 
I know the financial basis :  do you spend $$$$ a month on a new car loan as well
as a down payment; OR keep the PF and spend some more $$$ without warranty.  
What do you think?  What else could I expect to do to the PF??
 
Thanks so much for your attention & professionalism.
 
Aldo M
Westchester County, NY

Aldo

It is wonderful to be on Saturday afternoons now. I feel good about being able to reach all of my listeners on a larger scale to help them with their car problems.
 
Replacing or repairing a vehicle always comes down to dollars. I would want a good mechanic to go over the vehicle and give a conditional evaluation. Judging by the emails it seems there is much discrepancy as to the trucks true condition. As I always say it is $120 to maintain a vehicle after its paid for, warranty has no bearing on the issue.
 
An eight year old vehicle is going to need its fair share of work just like everything else. This is a case of do you want to spend money on the older vehicle to keep it going or replace it with new and start over?
 
Hard call to make without a complete evaluation

Regards

Ron Ananian
The Car Doctor