I’m stuck trying to figure out if I should put money into fixing my car or just go for a new one. Here’s the deal: I had to get my 2011 Ford Fiesta SE towed because the car revs but won’t move. The Ford service center says I need a transmission rebuild, which will cost $4K.
The car also needs a new catalytic converter ($2K) based on a check engine light diagnosis. It’s not urgent, but it’s still something I’ll need to deal with eventually. I love this car—it’s been with me through thick and thin since I got it in 2019. It’s paid off, has 134K miles, and aside from these problems, I’ve only had to do regular maintenance.
My main concerns:
Fiestas have a reputation for transmission problems. My sister has a 2012 Fiesta SES with 125K miles, and her less extensive rebuild seems fine so far (knock on wood).
I’m way too emotionally attached to this car to think straight.
Paying $4-6K to keep it running seems wild, but is it? The Ford tech said the rebuild comes with a 2-year warranty on parts and labor, which helps a bit. If the rebuild guaranteed another 100K miles without issues, I’d be all in, but I know that’s not realistic.
What do you all think? Should I fix it or move on?
I think you should weigh the emotional attachment vs. practicality. If the car’s gonna keep giving you problems, it might be better to move on. $6K is a lot for a car that might not last much longer.
Caden said:
I think you should weigh the emotional attachment vs. practicality. If the car’s gonna keep giving you problems, it might be better to move on. $6K is a lot for a car that might not last much longer.
True. That’s what I’m worried about. Do you think another 100K miles after a rebuild is possible?
Caden said:
I think you should weigh the emotional attachment vs. practicality. If the car’s gonna keep giving you problems, it might be better to move on. $6K is a lot for a car that might not last much longer.
It’s possible, but not guaranteed. A lot depends on how the car’s been treated and the quality of the rebuild.
I’d fix it. If you’ve kept up with maintenance and love the car, $4K isn’t bad for a transmission rebuild with a warranty. Plus, it’s cheaper than buying new.
Cassidy said:
I’d fix it. If you’ve kept up with maintenance and love the car, $4K isn’t bad for a transmission rebuild with a warranty. Plus, it’s cheaper than buying new.
Good point. The warranty does give me some peace of mind. Do you think it’s worth fixing the catalytic converter too?
Cassidy said:
I’d fix it. If you’ve kept up with maintenance and love the car, $4K isn’t bad for a transmission rebuild with a warranty. Plus, it’s cheaper than buying new.
I’d wait on the converter unless it’s causing issues right now. Focus on the transmission first.