More Car (Auto) Advice

[MasonJar]

Here's another question then. I we decide to keep the Honda going for another 2-3 years, is it worth investing $1,000 to $2,000 in fixing the worst rust areas? This would be mostly for cosmetic reasons but I'm sure it would run even better if we fixed the rusty fenders, etc. :-) :-)

I would not spend that much. This is where the forums come in handy. Look for a part out of a same-body type (needed for fit) and same paint colour (if it matters to you). You should be able to pick up and swap the fenders or affected panels for much less than $2,000. Even if they need a little work, there's a lot to be gained (mostly saved ) by taking this approach.

For example, if I needed to, the going rate for my Golf front fenders seems to be about $100 each. There are only 6 or 8 bolts that hold each one on. A few hours in your driveway, and voila! Having said that, I don't know how the Hondas are put together, so YMMV

Quick overview of bolt/screw locations:
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Detailed video, Part 1
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Part 2
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Andrew

[RobertInOntario]

Thanks, Andrew. I'll consider those forums. When we are ready to replace one car, I was thinking of narrowing it down to 2-3 models. We're quite pleased with our Honda, so I'm tempted to stay with Honda (the Honda Fit is a possibility). I really like Mazdas, say the Mazda 3 or 5. Consumers Reports and the Lemon Aid books are also useful references. Based on the mileage you've got on your cars, and on what other folks say, maybe we don't need to panic yet! Rob

Hi Rob,

We looked at the Honda Fit as well, but decided it was just not enough. We did not need the huge capacity of the van, but still wanted to tow things. The Fit is just too small for that (although interior room is huge). The Mazda 5 could be a good choice too.

But we also decided that we would not buy brand new again. Let someone else take care of the depreciation...! So we ended up with the 2005 Jetta Wagon. All maintenance up to date including timing belt at time of sale. Even with tax, and extras that I have to install like the tow bar, we still came out with a price less than 2/3 of a new base Honda Fit, that gets 40 mpg in the city, and over 50 on the highway.

Plus, I always wanted one and it's fun to drive.

Andrew

Andrew: yes I totally agree about not buying new & letting someone else take the hit. However, if you keep the car 15-20 years, you could argue that the depreciation is a moot point.

We would really like the extra cargo room of the Mazda 5 or Fit as we do a lot of road trips. I still want to avoid buying a van if I can help it!

Cheers, R

[RobertInOntario]

Here's another question then. I we decide to keep the Honda going for another 2-3 years, is it worth investing $1,000 to $2,000 in fixing the worst rust areas? This would be mostly for cosmetic reasons but I'm sure it would run even better if we fixed the rusty fenders, etc. :-) :-)

I would not spend a cent for cosmetic on that car (on any car:-). I did see lots of people that tried fighting rust. It was either only cosmetic at the surface and did not change anything or it was very expensive (e.g. restoration of a high value old timer).

But I assume the structure of the body is stable and fit. We are talking about cosmetic only, do we?

Yes, it would mainly be cosmetic, just so it doesn't look so run down!
Thx