Repair 12 year old Taurus?

BION

MEMBER
2012 FORD TAURUS

Our son has a 12 year old Ford Taurus (1995), automatic with a medium size engine (I am not sure of the size). The car has a diagnosed problem of needing a new air conditioner which is apparently part of the sepentine belt and must be repaired to run the car ($900) plus new
ball joints for another $300-400. For $1300 the
car should be running again. He doesn't have any money
so we parents have to decide whether putting $1300 into a 12 year old car with 100,000 miles is a good decision and then pay for it. Or should we give up on this car and put a downpayment on a newer used
car? Can you help me, the Mom? With thanks in advance.

1 Reply

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there,

I have parents ask this same question quite often, I advise them to take stock of what they have got, Has the car been reliable, is the body in good condition, now as far as the A/C repair goes, that's one they is not a common fault and the ball joints really come under maintenance so what ever you might purchase things like ball joints, brakes, etc will always be required at some time. You really have to ask your self do you want to spend a few grand on something you know, or buy another car ( someones trade in) and hope that your not into the hip pocket again. I would get a mechanic to give your car a good inspection and report that will give you some idea as to the overall condition of the car, he / she should be able to advise on any adverse conditions with you car so you can make a better judgment call on spending a little on what you know or spend a lot more on what you don't. Hard call I know, but there is no easy answer.

Good luck,

Mark (mhpautos)