To Fix or Not to Fix. That is the Question!

KATMANDU

MEMBER
1994 BMW 530I
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
194,000 MILES

I have a 1994 BMW 530i w/194k miles. The engine only has 100k.

The transmission recently started slipping and most likely needs replace. I found a recently rebuilt one that I can have installed for around $1000 Total cost.

The only other major issue with the car is the AC condensor needs replaced. I have a new one already and it will cost around $100 + Freon to install.

I commute (76)miles round-trip per day. My 530i gets around (20)MPGs highway.

Is this care worth sinking another $1100 into it or to just go buy another older, smaller (more fuel efficient) car.

What say you?

TIA!

3 Replies

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

The first thing that pops out here is the poor fuel economy, it could/should be around 30. As to the matter of my opinion to the fix it/buy a new car issue, I would take some other factors into consideration first. You already own this one, insurance costs, fuel economy(if it comes up to where it really should be)cost per year for maintaining the car, the safety of the car compared to a smaller vehicle and so forth. If money is the major factor here, then reselling the BMW would also need to be considered. Having these issues on the table now can change the conversation, what is your take?

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Friday, January 7th, 2011 AT 6:44 PM

KATMANDU

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hey Doc, Thanks for your reply. I appreciate it.

Actually, my 530 is quite capable of pulling 24-25 MPGs highway, the problem is ME! I'm not capable of driving under 80MPH! LOL!

Seriously though, I do need to crunch the numbers to see where everything lies. My commute is 95% flat highway. With gas prices skyrocketing (again!) MPGs is becoming a greater concern. Reselling this car could also prove difficult as well.

? Decisions, decisions. ?

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Friday, January 7th, 2011 AT 7:05 PM

DOCHAGERTY