Car choicew

[Craig234]

Since I don't know much about cars, I'd like to ask those who do to offer advice for this:

Person has 1996 Buick Le Sabre, 8xxxx miles, new tires. The water pump went out, all the water drained, the engine overheated and cracked the block, a garage says.

They say that depending how bad the damage is, the repair is $2200 or $3000.

Choices:

1. Repair the car.

2. Get another car. This one is about selection. Interest in a possible convertible.

Now, I don't know much about picking them. Not sure of budget, let's say $5K to $15K, where under $10K is suspected of being junk not worth getting.

One thing I remember: Top Gear did a convertible episode several years ago, and couldn't agree on anything except the one to get if you can afford it is the Mercedes CLK 350.

Now, since it's been several years, I took a glance and it looks like they can be had around that $15K price point.

I can google to get some 'expert lists' of recommendations to help with suggestions.

But what would the advice here be - repair the Buick or not, and if not, advice on selecting another car, where to buy, is that Mercedes a good pick. Any recommended list?

One factor: prefer a larger space interior. Used for value reasons. Thanks for suggestions.

 

[ViviTheMage]

are they looking for something nicer, or do they not really care?

assuming the car is owned ... and they've had it for 5+ years, 2200-3000 repair on that buick should** last them a few more years before something major comes up.

now if they feel like they've got enough out of the buick and want to spend the money on a newer car, then i'd start looking.

 

[nerp]

If the rest of the Buick is in great shape, then it might be worth fixing it. But if it needs other stuff and is showing rust, etc, it might not be worth it.

 

[olds]

For me, it's a 17 year old American car. I'd sell it as is or for scrap. The repairs probably cost more than the car is worth.

 

[Dr. Detroit]

Rebuild? Just buy a used engine. I assume its either a 3100 or 3800 Engine.

$400 for the engine and $800 for labor ought to get it done.

 

[Craig234]

Rebuild? Just buy a used engine. I assume its either a 3100 or 3800 Engine.

$400 for the engine and $800 for labor ought to get it done.

I don't know what type it is, but it's a 6 cylinder. The car seems otherwise in decent shape.

I wonder why the garage didn't suggest a new engine as an option.

 

[thedarkwolf]

and those engines are in everything so it shouldn't be hard to find one.

 

[boomhower]

I'd be careful with a $15k 350. Likely has some miles and is going to be expensive to repair.

I don't know what type it is, but it's a 6 cylinder. The car seems otherwise in decent shape.

I wonder why the garage didn't suggest a new engine as an option.

Stab in the dark is they make more money on the repair than a swap.

 

[NutBucket]

Well a used engine is usually of unknown condition so a rebuilt at least guarantees some level of quality. But those engines are plentiful and I would be inclined to go used given the age of the car.

 

[MiataNC]

2. Get another car. This one is about selection. Interest in a possible convertible.

Now, I don't know much about picking them. Not sure of budget, let's say $5K to $15K, where under $10K is suspected of being junk not worth getting.

If you want reliable and cheap to fix/maintain...

Mazda Miata, Honda S2000, or a gently used Lexus SC430.

Avoid German cars unless you have deep pockets. Parts and labor is MUCH higher than US/Japanese makes.