Driving an older car is a bit of a gamble; you have to weigh how well the vehicle is running, the costs of potential or currently needed repairs, and your own financial situation. When your vehicle is at the end of its life, however, there are many parts of it that are still usable; many auto recyclers pay cash for junk cars, so you can recoup some of the costs of the next one. According to the pros at Pleasant Valley, Connecticut-based Stewart’s Used Auto Parts, it’s important to know when it’s the right time to junk it.

What should you think about when deciding whether to junk a car? Let’s take a look:

• Cost Of Repairs: The most obvious consideration will be the cost of necessary repairs versus that of the vehicle as a whole. If the former outweighs the latter, you’re better off finding the nearest yard and opting for junk car removal. This is not always that straightforward, however; you have to balance annual repair costs for the vehicle with its value, and even if total repairs over the year match the cost of the vehicle, it still might be less expensive to choose this option than pay for a new vehicle.
• Safety & Convenience Issues: Some issues and problems are more serious than others are, so you have to decide whether they need to be fixed for your safety or if they are just a matter of convenience and comfort. For instance, you might be able to live with driving a car with no functioning AC, but other problems like a hole in the floor or a leaking brake line actually influence the ability of your car to operate safely.

If it seems that it’s time to scrap that old beater, the folks at Stewart’s Used Auto Parts are ready to help. To learn more about this auto recycler and to learn about the many used auto parts they have in stock, visit them online, or call (800) 726-0871.