BUFFALO, N.Y., April 2, 2009, – During this challenging economy, many motorists have delayed the purchase of a newer vehicle. As existing vehicles continue to age, major components can begin to fail and leave motorists facing a tough decision—invest in costly repairs to an older vehicle or purchase a newer one.

According to R.L. Polk & Co, a research provider of automotive information, the average length of vehicle ownership in the United States has increased from 4.1 to 4.7 years, and the median age of a passenger vehicle increased to a record high of 9.4 years in 2008.

“Motorists are holding onto vehicles longer, making vehicle maintenance more important than ever,” said Jeff Damude, Director of AAA Car Care Plus® for AAA Western and Central New York. “The decision to repair or replace is a personal one, and motorists need to consider a number of factors.”

Compare costs

It is typically less expensive in the long run to repair the vehicle already owned rather than purchasing a newer one. Financing a $2,000 repair typically results in lower payments (or similar payments for a shorter time) than those incurred when purchasing a newer vehicle.

If motorists are still paying off a car loan on an existing vehicle, they need to take a careful look at the equity they have in it. If they are ‘upside down’ in the loan, meaning they owe more than the current value of the vehicle, purchasing a newer vehicle could mean not only financing its purchase price but also the negative equity from their current vehicle.

Follow the 50-percent rule

After receiving the estimate of a major repair, consider the “50-percent rule.” When the cost of a needed repair approaches 50 percent of the vehicle’s value, it is time to seriously consider replacing it. Current trade-in and retail values of vehicles can be determined by using tools available online at www.AAA.com/automaker.

Reliability and Maintenance History

The decision to make a major vehicle repair should always be based on knowing the vehicle is otherwise in good condition and likely will not require additional major repairs anytime soon. Consider the reliability of the vehicle so far - if it has a history of problems, it could indicate there are more costly repairs still to come.

The best way to know a vehicle’s condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop. If a repair shop knows the service history of a vehicle, consumers can look to its technicians for guidance on when their vehicle likely will need major repairs. Keep in mind that the best time to make a repair or replace decision is always before the vehicle breaks down. A car with its transmission scattered by the roadside has little or no trade-in value.

“Following the vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations can greatly increase the lifespan of a vehicle,” said Damude. “It’s the difference between paying $100 now to replace a part before it fails or being faced with a $1,000 repair bill later when the part fails and causes major damage to other vehicle components.”

Lifestyle

Changes in lifestyle can be a large factor in changing vehicles. Family size, commute length, recreational usage and business needs are all legitimate reasons to consider purchasing a newer vehicle that is better suited to a consumer’s driving routine. Changes in priorities can also be a factor, such as the desire for a more environmentally-friendly vehicle or one with more safety features.

Cosmetics

The cosmetic condition of a vehicle can greatly affect its value and a motorist’s desire to hold on to it. Motorists should take a critical look at their vehicle for signs of a wear and tear and evaluate how important their vehicle’s cosmetics are to them. For someone who frequently drives business associates, vehicle appearance might be a higher priority than it is to others.

Nicks in the paint that are starting to rust or snags in the upholstery might not seem like a big deal now, but they can grow into larger cosmetic issues that can depreciate the value of a vehicle. If opting to hold on to a vehicle, be sure to address those little things to prevent them from getting worse.

Outside factors

Several outside factors may impact the decision between repairing and replacing a vehicle such as reduced pricing and special offers from manufacturers; the ability to secure financing and other upcoming expenses. A vehicle that could become an appreciating classic sometime down the road also might be worthy of extraordinary repairs and maintenance.

“Given proper maintenance and an occasional repair, modern cars are highly reliable and can be safely driven far beyond 100,000 miles,” said Damude.

If deciding to go ahead with a major repair, be sure to use a qualified and trustworthy auto repair facility. AAA Car Care Plus offers automotive repair, maintenance services, and glass repair and replacement at its Amherst facility, 2131 Eggert Road, near Niagara Falls Boulevard.

AAA members benefit from special rates, a free deluxe touch-less car wash from Delta Sonic, a complimentary vehicle report card and diagnostic check of brakes, alignment and suspension with each visit, and a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Nonmembers also enjoy competitive labor rates on all services.

AAA Car Care Plus hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (716) 362-0562 or visit www.AAA.com/CarCarePlus.

As Upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA provides nearly 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.