Should I Repair or Sell My Car? If your car has major mechanical issues or significant panel damage, you may be asking yourself: “Is my car worth repairing?” The answer depends on several factors — repair costs, your car’s current value, and how much longer you expect to keep it.
In many cases, especially with older vehicles, it’s smarter to sell your car for cash instead of sinking money into endless repairs. Companies like 360 Pro Auto make the process hassle-free with:
- Best cash offers for any car
- FREE car removals & pick-up
- No hidden fees, no obligations
When Is It Better to Repair Instead of Replacing?
Before you decide to fix or sell your car, ask yourself these key questions:
- How old is my car?
- How much will the repairs cost?
- How long will repairs take?
- Will I need a rental car while it’s in the shop?
- Am I satisfied with my current car’s features and performance?
- What’s the cost of buying a replacement vehicle?
👉 Example: If repairs will cost thousands and take weeks, plus you’ll need to pay for a rental, you might be better off cutting your losses.
The 50% Repair Cost Rule
A common guideline for deciding whether to repair or replace a car is the 50% rule:
If the cost of repairs is 50% or more of your car’s current value, it’s usually not worth fixing.
Instead, you could put that money toward a newer, more reliable car.
💡 For instance:
- Car’s current value = $8,000
- Repair estimate = $5,000
- Combined = $13,000 (enough to start shopping for a newer vehicle).
This isn’t a strict rule, but it gives you a solid benchmark when making your decision.
Best Options for Selling a Car With Problems
You’ve weighed the pros and cons of fixing your old vehicle and decided it’s time for a fresh start. The next step is figuring out how much your car is worth and where to sell it.
If your car has mechanical issues or damage, you still have several selling options:
1. Sell Privately
Selling your car privately can sometimes get you the highest price, especially if the vehicle is desirable to DIY buyers or mechanics. However, this method can be slow and inconvenient, requiring you to list the car, handle inquiries, and arrange viewings.
2. Trade-In at a Dealership
If you want to move on quickly, trading in your car at a dealership is an option. But be prepared for a low trade-in value — especially if your car has major issues. Dealerships typically offer less for cars with problems compared to well-running vehicles.
3. Sell to a Scrap Yard
Scrap yards buy damaged or non-running vehicles mainly for parts or weight. While this can be faster than selling privately, quotes vary widely, so it’s important to get multiple offers. Some yards pay only a flat fee, which may be less than your car’s actual worth.
4. Sell Online to Cash for Cars Services
The fastest and easiest way to sell a car with problems is through an online Cash for Cars or Car Wreckers company. These services provide:
- Instant quotes in minutes
- Free car removals
- Same-day payments
This option lets you avoid the hassle of private buyers and the lowball offers from dealerships.
⚠️ Keep in mind: not all Cash for Cars companies are equal. Some may charge hidden fees or offer less than fair value.
That’s why choosing a trusted company like 360 Pro Auto ensures you get:
- The best cash offer for your car
- FREE car removals across North Island
- A hassle-free, no-obligation process
Why Sell Your Vehicle to 360 Pro Auto
With over a decade of experience, 360 Pro Auto is a trusted name in buying vehicles of all makes, models, and conditions. Whether your car is damaged, non-running, or simply unwanted, our experts know how to determine a fair market cash offer tailored to your vehicle’s value. Every deal comes with FREE car removal, and there are no hidden fees or charges—we pay you, not the other way around. Once you accept our offer, we’ll schedule a convenient pickup, and our tow truck driver will arrive with cash in hand. Simply hand over the keys, sign the paperwork, and walk away with instant payment. Fast, safe, and hassle-free, 360 Pro Auto makes it easier than ever to turn your unwanted car into cash today.
Get the best cash offer for your car in minutes.
Call 0800 360 776 and let 360 Pro Auto handle the rest!
