When should I upgrade my vehicle? This is a question that every car owner will eventually ask but it can be a little bit tricky to decide when it is time to make some change. If you want to know if it is time to upgrade or hold on to your car for a little bit longer then it is best to keep an eye out for some signs that your car might no longer be adequate. Here are the top signs that it might be time for an improvement.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes are some of the biggest reasons to change your ride. Your vehicle should be able to accommodate your immediate needs and our needs can change over time.
Most people will switch vehicles when they start building a family. You might choose to upgrade your ride with each new edition to the family since your old vehicle might not have enough seating to keep everyone safe or storage space can be an issue.
Medium to large SUV’s are a popular choice for young families as they provide much more room for baby seats, storage for prams and porter cots. The additional height also improves access and ease of putting in children into the vehicles without having to bend down. The extra height also provides better forward and outward vision which many consider makes them feel safer when driving.
Mature families can also choose to downgrade to something smaller and flashier when children fly the coop and get their own vehicles. The need to carry children and all ancillary rear cargo demands ease with a smaller vehicle making more sense in terms of practicality and ease of driving.
Other lifestyle changes might require a vehicle change. Perhaps you switched jobs and need something more fuel-efficient? Or perhaps you relocated and need a vehicle that can handle off-road terrains?
In any case, a major lifestyle change is usually a good sign that it is time to make the switch to something more suitable.
The Mileage Is Getting High
One of the first things used car buyers will look at is the clocked distance of the vehicle. The driving distance can be even more important than the year model of the vehicle because it gives insight into how much the vehicle was driven.
A higher mileage usually means that you are closer to more frequent repairs because all of the moving components in a vehicle will become more and more worn out with every kilometre you drive.
The vehicle is no longer reliable and depending on it to carry out your day to day duties, obligations and family duties has become more difficult and its safety has become questionable.
It is also likely that the car no longer is supported by factory warranty and there is a much higher risk and financial consequences of being fully exposed to the cost of potential repairs.
If the clocked distance on the odometer is getting high then it might be time to upgrade since your current vehicle is bound to have some needed repairs in the near future.
You Haven’t Upgraded in 5 Years
It is recommended to upgrade your vehicle at least once every five years. With this upgrade duration, your current vehicle won’t have lost too much value and you can still get a pretty good deal for your current vehicle. Upgrading every five years also ensures that you won’t fall behind the times in terms of technology, functionality, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
Technology such as Apple/ Android Carplay, 360 degree reversing cameras, auto wipers, auto headlights and high beam dipping, heated/ cooling & massaging seats all make driving easier and more enjoyable.
Latest Safety Aids such as Automatic Emergency Braking ( High & Low), Lane Departure Warning & Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Assist, Active Cruise Control all help prevent accidents that otherwise older vehicles would not have installed when purchased.
Your Car Is Showing Signs of Trouble
It is usually best to upgrade your vehicle when it starts to give some issues. Car troubles like constant breakdowns, frequent small repairs, road noise, engine noise, or electrical issues usually mean that your vehicle is becoming worn out. For many it is better to upgrade while the car is still in relatively good shape and before you experience a major breakdown.
Every person’s financial situation is different and the ongoing cost of car ownership varies. There is a point where it does not start to make economic sense to continue to spend money on a car beyond its overall value. It may be a better decision to put the potential repair costs into a newer, safer and more fuel efficient car that actually drives better and may come with full or significant warranty that will reduce your overall cost of ownership.
You Don’t Like Your Vehicle
A lot of people buy vehicles out of need. As a result, they often end up driving something they just don’t like. Car design, colour, branding and image is a personal thing. How you choose to spend your money and the importance that a vehicle is to you can vary. It may be important to you to drive what you like because cruising around in a vehicle you love can offer lots of social or confidence-boosting benefits. It may be just rewards for your hard work, part of the goals you set yourself as an important element in your lifestyle. You are also much more likely to take good care of the vehicle when you enjoy your car.
Professional Help for Your Next Upgrade
My Next Car Buying Advocacy is a great service to use when it is time to upgrade your vehicle. Our car buying experts will help you find a vehicle that suits your current needs, budget range, and personal preferences and we will help you seek out a vehicle that is right for you and suits your lifestyle.
Give our Car Buying Advocates a call and you will soon have access to exclusive car offers that are custom-chosen to suit your needs.