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$1300 car repair...

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  • #1

    $1300 car repair...

    I drive a 1998 BMW 525il with 140,000 miles on it. It was making all sorts of weird noises, so I brought it to the shop. $1,300 later, it sounds great...but JEEZ that was a huge car bill.

    The car is probably worth around $4,500 - $5,000 (that is what kbb.com says). My dad took a look at what was replaced (3 hoses, a radiator, and 4 different belts plus something with the power steering) and told me that the mechanic (who has been a family friend for a long time) was giving me a good deal.

    I hope I made the right decision. The car has only been serviced a few times...and I never had a car payment...so I guess it evens out? I am trying to save and save and hopefully this will take me another 3 years or so. The mechanic said it has a lot of life left and that he has sold them with over 200,000 miles on them...so he said that he could offer me a newer car...but not because I NEED one. He thinks mine is fine.
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  • #2
    I'd say you made the right decision. I also drive a 1998 car and I plan to spend about $1,000/year on maintenance and repairs. Some years it has been more, some years less, but that's roughly the average. I figure it is way cheaper than having a new car with payments and higher insurance.
    Steve

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    • #3
      Sounds a great deal for all the work done. Do you like the car?
      LivingAlmostLarge Blog

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      • #4
        Better than a car payment

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        • #5
          You got a very good deal if the work was done by competent mechanic. Parts are more expensive on a bimmer. Also, most reputable mechanics at an independent shop will charge $80-$90/hr of labor.

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          • #6
            Also if that's the original radiator than it was WAYYYY past due for replacement for your mileage. Those are all wear & tear items. You were lucky the radiator didn't explode and fry the engine. I hope they checked the water pump and thermostat as well with that mileage.

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            • #7
              That generation of bimmers holds up very well normally. Keep the car!

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              • #8
                I really love the car...and it has needed very little maintainence over the years. At this point in my life, I would have to finance another car...and I do not want to do that.

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                • #9
                  The mechanic specializes in BMW's and often rebuilds them...my dad really trusts him and it is where he originally bought the car.

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