Currently own a 2013 Chevy Cruze and a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Jeep blew a head gasket and needs $3,500 in repairs. KBB on this car is $2,000, which seems fair given the inside of the Jeep isn't well maintained. We have an opportunity to replace the engine entirely through a local auto mechanic school for roughly $800, which is certainly preferable to the $3,500 quote from the mechanic.
Given that we have decisions to make, I want to make the best decision for my family but also want to be more environmentally responsible. I'd like to get feedback about my options.
(1) - Fix jeep for $800, drive until it dies.
(2) - Fix jeep for $800, sell it privately. Buy a used vehicle.
(3) - Take jeep in current condition to a dealer and see what trade in value they'll give us. Buy a used vehicle.
If the KBB price is $2,000, it almost seems as though putting a new engine in the car wouldn't be worth the $800 if the plan is to sell the vehicle. I think if I'm spending $800, it should be with the intention to drive this thing until it dies. Is this the most environmentally responsible decision though? On the one hand, I like the idea of potentially driving this vehicle for several more years (has a relatively new radiator, tires and brakes) and delaying it's deposit into a junk yard. On the other hand, it seems environmentally wasteful to create demand for a new engine for a car that won't last.