I have a 1995 Nissan Pathfinder with 158,000 miles on it and just yesterday my reverse stopped working. I called around and there is a general consensus that my transmission will die very soon. The cost of replacing my transmission is $2500-$3200 and the value of the car(kelly blue book) is estimated at low $2850. I also just spent $500 to replace the 2 front axles on the car. It doesn't appear to have any foreseen problems, but as with any old car problems can occur at any time. Does it make more sense to fix my car or to get a used car for the cost of the fix($2500-$3200) plus sale of a broken car($800)? How would you look at this from a financial point of view, because I don't have any emotional attachment to the car or a new used car? The most important thing for me is getting the best value out of the situation. Thanks In advance.
yah the tranny probably is full of metal bits so you'll need a new torque converter; bad idea to go used there. might as well do the rear main seal too.
so even if you don't use AA-MCO; you have significant additional costs for a non-warranty transmission (refurbs that cost 2000 usually comes with a 2 year warranty and last just that long)
SUCKISSTAPLES said: A good used transmission plus a cheap install guy will cost under $500.
It is ridiculous to spend $3000 on a new tranny on this car, but the problem isnt the repair price, its your choice of how you intend to get it fixed.
500 sounds damn near impossible, more realistically 800-1000. But before doing anything I'd take to a good mechanic to see what else is wrong/will go wrong shortly and make the decision based on that.
There comes a point in cars life when it is really cheaper to buy a new one than keep fixing old one.
800-1000 is for low mileage warrantted used drivetrains shipped to the us for many older japanese cars , those are cleaned and warranted for 6 months usually
for under $200 get used with 90 day warranty http://www.picknpullsa.com/parts.html http://www.pickapartauto.com/trans.html
Another poster got his engine done for something like 1300 parts and labor, a tranny would be about $200 used and $300 for install at the places that specialize in this
they have lowmile engines for $660 http://cgi.eBay.com/ebaymotors/89-95-NISSAN-PATHFINDER-PICKUP-V6-JDM-USED-ENGINE-VG30_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp4634Q2ec0Q2em14Q2el1262QQhashZitem4ceae7e004QQitemZ330358579204QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccessories
ppatin
Focused.
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 7:55a
If I had a car with a dying transmission and 160k miles on it I'd start looking for a replacement. If your car is still running that gives you some time to find a good deal on a used car. You also need to figure out how else you'll be affected by a car that has a chance of regularly breaking down. If reliable transportation is important for your job then you probably don't want to deal with the hassle of regular mechanical issues, but if you ride a bus to work you can probably live with a less than spectacularly reliable car.
What kind of vehicle can you get for $2850? What kind of vehicle will you get if you replace or rebuild the transmission?
rechtien
Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 8:21a
Rule of thumb I have always used is that if the repair will cost more than half the vehicles value then buy a car instead of fixing the old one. In your case if you cannot fix it for less than 1425 then it might make sense to buy another used car in good running condition.
Rechtien
Grizybaer
Senior Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 9:52a
also, do you need your car, a pickup truck? if you would rather have a small compact and your car is having problems, now would be a good time to switch.
tmmdwbd
Addicted Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 9:53a
I am (was) in the same boat. My car is a 95 toyota avalon. The kbb value is around 2,500. Last year, I have the bearing, control arms, O2 sensor, and front axles replaced, I think the total cost was 1,500. This year, I have the AC condenser replaced for 300. The four shocks will need to be replaced soon and next year, I will need to replace the timing belt, water pump, spark plug, and coolant. Other than these, the ABS is not work since last year, and the mechanic told me to just leave it along. I know I should have get rid of it last year before these big repair if I don't want to spend any money on it. But since I have spend so much on it already, I will just have to keep spending.
tmmdwbd said: I am (was) in the same boat. My car is a 95 toyota avalon. The kbb value is around 2,500. Last year, I have the bearing, control arms, O2 sensor, and front axles replaced, I think the total cost was 1,500. This year, I have the AC condenser replaced for 300. The four shocks will need to be replaced soon and next year, I will need to replace the timing belt, water pump, spark plug, and coolant. Other than these, the ABS is not work since last year, and the mechanic told me to just leave it along. I know I should have get rid of it last year before these big repair if I don't want to spend any money on it. But since I have spend so much on it already, I will just have to keep spending. Wow, you're the first person to admit that you need to spend a lot of $$ to maintain your old toyota. Most of the time, I only hear something like this "My toyota is 15 years old w/ 200k miles but it runs like NEW".
tmmdwbd
Addicted Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 10:10a
suethem said: tmmdwbd said: I am (was) in the same boat. My car is a 95 toyota avalon. The kbb value is around 2,500. Last year, I have the bearing, control arms, O2 sensor, and front axles replaced, I think the total cost was 1,500. This year, I have the AC condenser replaced for 300. The four shocks will need to be replaced soon and next year, I will need to replace the timing belt, water pump, spark plug, and coolant. Other than these, the ABS is not work since last year, and the mechanic told me to just leave it along. I know I should have get rid of it last year before these big repair if I don't want to spend any money on it. But since I have spend so much on it already, I will just have to keep spending. Wow, you're the first person to admit that you need to spend a lot of $$ to maintain your old toyota. Most of the time, I only hear something like this "My toyota is 15 years old w/ 200k miles but it runs like NEW".
"My toyota is 15 years old w/ 170k miles but it runs like new (other than these problems )"
ucb2001
Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 11:14a
The problem with buying a used car for around $2000-$3000 is you don't know what problems it might have also. If you buy it, it might run fine for 6 months, then have problems that might cost you more money to fix.
Superdude99
Senior Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 12:02p
I have a 96 Chevy Caprice that had transmission probs. Cost me 1800 bucks for a rebuilt tranny. I never regretted it because the car runs really nice now. I hope I can get 3 more years out of it. I look at it this way. Divide the cost of repair into 12 parts. Ask your self would you like to have a 1 year car payment of XXXX amount or 300-400 for 5 years?
mitchatwrk
New Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 12:28p
Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking.
ppatin
Focused.
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 12:36p
mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking.
I don't mean to be a jerk, but the fact that the transmission on my Ford Focus has outlasted an Accord makes me feel a lot better on my car.
There were known problems with the Accord Transmission for certain years. They extended the warranty to 100k. Mine of course went at around 110k. I am sure with some funny paperwork I could have received a reimbursement.
ppatin
Focused.
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 12:48p
mitchatwrk said: There were known problems with the Accord Transmission for certain years. They extended the warranty to 100k. Mine of course went at around 110k. I am sure with some funny paperwork I could have received a reimbursement.
Ok. It seemed really odd that a Honda transmission would die that early.
I have a 2000 Acura TL and my transmission went out, again, at 125,000. There were all sorts of problems with the transmissions in these Acuras. I had it replaced once under the recall, but now I have to pay. They quoted $3500 for a rebuilt and said they would give me 50% off because this is my second one. I even called Acura corporate and got nowhere. Really frustrated, but I think I have to suck it up and pay.
tmmdwbd said: I am (was) in the same boat. My car is a 95 toyota avalon. The kbb value is around 2,500. Last year, I have the bearing, control arms, O2 sensor, and front axles replaced, I think the total cost was 1,500. This year, I have the AC condenser replaced for 300. The four shocks will need to be replaced soon and next year, I will need to replace the timing belt, water pump, spark plug, and coolant. Other than these, the ABS is not work since last year, and the mechanic told me to just leave it along. I know I should have get rid of it last year before these big repair if I don't want to spend any money on it. But since I have spend so much on it already, I will just have to keep spending.
ucb2001 said: The problem with buying a used car for around $2000-$3000 is you don't know what problems it might have also. If you buy it, it might run fine for 6 months, then have problems that might cost you more money to fix.
suethem said: tmmdwbd said: I am (was) in the same boat. My car is a 95 toyota avalon. The kbb value is around 2,500. Last year, I have the bearing, control arms, O2 sensor, and front axles replaced, I think the total cost was 1,500. This year, I have the AC condenser replaced for 300. The four shocks will need to be replaced soon and next year, I will need to replace the timing belt, water pump, spark plug, and coolant. Other than these, the ABS is not work since last year, and the mechanic told me to just leave it along. I know I should have get rid of it last year before these big repair if I don't want to spend any money on it. But since I have spend so much on it already, I will just have to keep spending. Wow, you're the first person to admit that you need to spend a lot of $$ to maintain your old toyota. Most of the time, I only hear something like this "My toyota is 15 years old w/ 200k miles but it runs like NEW".
I drive a 1993 toyota camry with 250K miles on it. It burns 1/2 quart every 1K miles due to poor valve seals. I just fill the oil as necessary, and keep on driving. Everything works on it, except for the antenna. It rattles, it squeaks, and the engine makes funny noises. I'm still happy, because i have a car with good air conditioning to get me around town.
The problem with the older avalons (like the older lexus GS) is they're very heavy cars with underdesigned suspensions. They will need new suspensions and brakes more frequently than the lighter camry and corolla.
As far as fixing the car vs buying a new one...If you can fix it for 1500 or less, I'd keep it. If you were to buy another cheapo used car, you may be buying a car with underlying problems. At least if you keep the car, you know it has a good transmission, plus its cheaper than a replacement vehicle.
ppatin said: mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking.
I don't mean to be a jerk, but the fact that the transmission on my Ford Focus has outlasted an Accord makes me feel a lot better on my car.
Driving a Ford Focus is pretty funny and sad at the same time.
yeehaa
Ancient Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 3:44p
Ok, so here's the way I look at it: Money in hand for the car: $2500 (that you need to spend) + $2500 (kbb value) = $5,000....A lot of folks here are thinking about a $2000-3000 used car, so I thought I will bring this up.
Things to evaluate: Can you go to a small sedan, or do you need an SUV? How much more, if any, are you willing to spend if you were to buy a used car?
If you can afford, you could add another $2k and get a decent car (kbb says you can get a 2001 Civic with 80k miles for a little less than $7k) That is just one of the many scenarios. I have no answer, but I hope my perspective helps you evaluate your options a little better
Btw, I was in the same situation earlier this year - My 93 accord is worth $2k, but needed more than that in repairs. I decided to keep it, not get all the things fixed (most are not critical), and use it only for short distances. I also bought another car (used) - but me and my wife were sharing a car before this new(used) car.
chiller670
New Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 3:50p
My friend is a dealer and usually says a junkyard motor and tranny should do the trick, meaning get the engine and tranny still attached to each other from the same car. It is less labor intensive to replace both at the same time and less to screw up. Also being an older car the parts won't cost much, just make sure they come from a lower mileage vehicle. Your only issue is finding someone to do it cheap but that all depends on where you live.
Ok. It seemed really odd that a Honda transmission would die that early.
it is a widespread issue with 00-03 models of honda and acura . I personally know 3-4 cases so far .
ppatin
Focused.
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 6:28p
LawrenceofArabia said: ppatin said: mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking.
I don't mean to be a jerk, but the fact that the transmission on my Ford Focus has outlasted an Accord makes me feel a lot better on my car.
Driving a Ford Focus is pretty funny and sad at the same time.
I know I shouldn't feed the troll, but...
Why? It gets me where I need to go, it's comfy enough for an economy car, gas mileage is acceptable (although a little low considering the car size & engine oomph), insurance is cheap and "car payment" is a foreign term to me. Maintaining a ten year old Focus on the other hand, is pretty sad. Nothing funny about $800 repair bills though
mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking.
Wow, that's early on the trans, bet it is V6, right? If so, see if Honda will pay you back something, they had recalls on those up to 120,000 miles or something. I have a 95 accord 4 cylinder, 195,000 miles, doesn't even burn oil, original shocks, ball joints, other suspension, wheel bearings, etc. Original trans. It's only needed CV joints twice, a muffler and maintenance stuff. Friend has a 94 accord with 345,000 miles, still going...
clearanceman said: mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking.
Wow, that's early on the trans, bet it is V6, right? If so, see if Honda will pay you back something, they had recalls on those up to 120,000 miles or something. I have a 95 accord 4 cylinder, 195,000 miles, doesn't even burn oil, original shocks, ball joints, other suspension, wheel bearings, etc. Original trans. It's only needed CV joints twice, a muffler and maintenance stuff. Friend has a 94 accord with 345,000 miles, still going...
My dad put 475,000 on his 94 accord 4cyl . The original engine and transmission had nothing but regular maintenance done.
RedCelicaGT said: clearanceman said: mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking.
Wow, that's early on the trans, bet it is V6, right? If so, see if Honda will pay you back something, they had recalls on those up to 120,000 miles or something. I have a 95 accord 4 cylinder, 195,000 miles, doesn't even burn oil, original shocks, ball joints, other suspension, wheel bearings, etc. Original trans. It's only needed CV joints twice, a muffler and maintenance stuff. Friend has a 94 accord with 345,000 miles, still going...
My dad put 475,000 on his 94 accord 4cyl . The original engine and transmission had nothing but regular maintenance done.
Wow, that's amazing. That series was something, where was your dad's made? Some were Japanese, mine is... wondering if it makes any difference. Even the headlights are completely clear, I have seen newer Hondas with cloudy lenses, but mine are as clear as new.
dimatkach
Senior Member
posted: Sep. 17, 2009 @ 8:05p
mitchatwrk said: There were known problems with the Accord Transmission for certain years. They extended the warranty to 100k. Mine of course went at around 110k. I am sure with some funny paperwork I could have received a reimbursement. Yes, you could. I did (my transmission went around 107k). After that recall, there was also a class action settlement, that made them add another 10k to the warranty. I remember laughing at such measly win when I was reading the settlement letter, and then laughing again, a lot more joyfully, when I first noticed my transmission slipping at 106k or so
The cost of replacing transmission $2500! Cost to replace the 2 front axles $500! Knowing that you saved taxpayers $4500 ( by not trading it in as a Clunker ) - PRICELESS!!!!
Question: If your car were "officially" (e.g., by KBB's generic appraisal) worth exactly $1, but you had spent $2,000 this year repairing it, would you deem it "worth" keeping? By the above reasoning: "OF COURSE! I spent $2,000 this year keeping it alive!"
Maybe we need a Car Death Panel to counteract our irrational impulse to invest in dying "assets". Any volunteers?
Avoid buying other ppl's trouble. Just spend more and buy a cheap, 2-3 years old car.
ucb2001 said: The problem with buying a used car for around $2000-$3000 is you don't know what problems it might have also. If you buy it, it might run fine for 6 months, then have problems that might cost you more money to fix.
mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking. Those are routine maintenance items you mentioned...who throws away a car needing just routine maintenance???
Wow, that's amazing. That series was something, where was your dad's made? Some were Japanese, mine is... wondering if it makes any difference. Even the headlights are completely clear, I have seen newer Hondas with cloudy lenses, but mine are as clear as new.
I don't know where it was made. He bought it new because he was excited about the first year of vtec. He sold it to a friend of the family. It's still on the road, and last I heard, has about 490,000 miles.
SUCKISSTAPLES said: mitchatwrk said: Same issue here, 2000 Accord 184k. I need a new timing belt, hoses, plugs, and tires. I already had a rebuilt tranny put in at 110k, how many more miles should I expect on a rebuilt? It may be time to start looking. Those are routine maintenance items you mentioned...who throws away a car needing just routine maintenance???
I am in a similar situation and I am asking myself this question now.
1996 Thunderbird that I really like - worth ~1100, have ~2700 worth of repairs.
The repairs, though, are not from a severe mechanical defect: New plugs New hoses New break pads / rotors New Windshield 2 x New lamp 1 x Back Blinker 4 x Tires New antenna ~Maybe~ new Catalytic Converter but the repair shop thinks new hoses / plugs are the actual fix for a problem regardless of engine codes.
So I can bring my car street legal, again, (sigh) for 2700 but the actual mechanical problems with the car are probably only ~1700. That said, spending 2700 on a car worth 1100 just does not seem to be a good idea even if the items in question are routine maintenance. After doing some private party shopping and discovering just how many people think their car is worth ~2k over KBB Private Party New price (same as buying it at a dealership) I am beginning to rethink this option.
Update: Shopped around and found out my shop was ridiculously overcharging me for -everything-. Wow. Looks like the car will be put back together for significantly less... will update when I get the final price...Thanks for the update.... please do let us know the final tally. It would be very hard to get the best price on ALL these items from just one shop...you can get better deals by going to separate individual places for the windshield, tires, brakes etc.
You should be able to handily beat all my pricing estimates above if you shop each of these repairs as one would shop a FWHD.
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