Time For A New Car

I have come to the sad realization that it is time to let my car die, and buy a new (used) one.

Last week the engine seemed to be running a bit rough when I was stopped at stop signs (yes, I actually stop at stop signs). I thought that maybe it was just the damp weather. Then the check engine light came on. The next thought was that it was just another O2 sensor. I have been replacing these every year or two. So I decided to take it into the local Chrysler dealership to find out what the problem was.

They plugged into the computer, and find that the last code was a 'Cylinder 2 Misfire'. Apparently the engine is leaking oil into cylinder 2. Great...how much to fix it?

$3,000 - $5,000

You want how much?! (Keep in mind that this is a 1995 Dodge Neon with 260,000Km on it)

The repair options were to a) replace all the engine seals b) put in a used engine (w/192,000km) c) put in a rebuilt engine.

Chrysler was also nice enough to hand me a bill for $50.00 for the honor of giving me the bad news.

I decided at that moment that it was time to replace the car. We will likely be buying a Dodge Grand Caravan, since we are going to be starting a family. We are also getting tired of cramming a semi's load worth of cargo into a Neon every time we go to the city.

In the interim, I have replaced the spark plugs in the hopes of limping the car through to the end of April whilst we look for a good deal on a used minivan. It's kind of sad, but on the other hand, it will save us almost a $1000 of other repairs that we have been putting off.

Off the the bank next week to see how much we can afford to borrow.

I'll keep you up to date as more transpires.

Have a great day!