We have a '91 BMW that we absolutely love (it’s a nifty little car). Unfortunately, the dealer we used to take it to didn’t do their job, and now we need to replace the engine. We also have to replace the water pump, clutch, all hoses, and the radiator. This was 5 years ago. It’s been sitting in the garage since. At the time, the price for fixing everything was about $6000. If we make the repairs, supposedly the car will be like “brand new” and should last us many many more years. Should we repair the car? Is it worth it? Will it really last us for 10 years? It will only be used for short distance driving to and from work. Is it better to put that many towards a new car? The hubby would drive it, so safety is only somewhat of a concern (versus the wife driving it). Thanks for any help!!
What is that car worth if you push it through a site like edmunds.com?
I can’t imagine it being worth a whole lot more than 3-5K if it is in decent condition, depending on mileage and options. It isn’t really a ‘classic’ so it won’t retain its value.
how many miles are on the car? What shape is the rest of the car in? Any body rust? Has the suspension ever been gone over? Brakes? Exhaust? has the electtrical system even given you problems?
Those are all things you need to consider when making a go/no go decision on the engine replacement.
The value of the vehicle with 125,000 miles in excellent condition is $2,200.
Not worth dumping six grand into.
Tester
Wow. 2200 - I figured loaded, good shape, low mileage in SWCT maybe 4K, average. No doubt tester is right: no way it is worth fixing.
After 5 years of sitting there’s also the possibly rotted tire issue, junk battery, potential fluid leaks and brake hydraulic failures, and a varnished fuel system which may mean a new fuel pump, filter, and possibly even fuel injectors.
You might go out, remove the gas cap, and smell the fuel inlet. If it has an old house paint smell you can reasonably assume the fuel system will need work.
NADA shows a low retail of about 3 grand and just my 2 cents, I think even that number is pie in the sky.
It might have been close to being worth fixing six years ago, but probably isn’t anymore. You might consider finding a used engine at www.car-part.com to at least get it running. That way you can get SOMETHING for it. As it is, it’ll bring about $250 by the ton at a crusher. You can maximize your imcome by removing the catalytic converter and selling it separately. BMW cats bring a premium price. Expect $100-$150.