Hello my fellow MMMers,
I seek your collective wisdom on the above-referenced topic, as the collective wisdom in my home about this topic is nonexistant.
We have an '06 Subaru Outback with 102,500 miles on it. Our plan is/was to drive it to the bitter end, as long as it is a safe vehicle for our family ( 2 adults, 2 young kids). We mostly drive short distances (under 10-15 miles) within our community, with the occasional road trip to the beach or to visit family (3-4 times/year).
At our last visit, our long-time trusted mechanic informed us that at our 105,000 tune up we would need head gaskets and timing belt changed, to the tune of $2,500. It also will need 4 new tires after the snows come off, in spring. We have $4500 set aside for major car expense, either repair, or a new car. In addition, my very benevolent mother just gifted us her Honda Fit, which is a 2007 model with only 58,000 miles on it. We rarely need two cars at this juncture, but anticipate needing two as the boys grow older and get involved in various activities.
The question is - do we just cut our losses and sell this car, and survive on the FIT (not ideal in winter conditions), or do we repair this car and hope it serves us dearly in the next 5 years? Thoughts? Thank you in advance!!