What to do with aging explorer

[Shran]

that's all fine and dandy for someone else to say if they're not in the same position. My explorer is almost 20 years old....if its rusted through the panels, then its a goner. Maybe I should consider going to a Ranger LOL. I WILL check the panels underneath, see what may or may not be cooking under there, then decide.
My car has to SELL first before any of this will happen....

I have only read the first page of this thread so I am assuming there is just an exhaust issue and other minor stuff. Just fix it. Rust doesn't make it a bad or unreliable vehicle. My DD is 14 years old and has 200k and a lot of rust too, not scared of keeping it though. You have a shit load of debt and a car that runs and drives. Obvious solution.

 

[ChargerOnDavins]

I agree with the credit problem. Get that shit payed off this economy is only going to tank before it gets better. As long as this failure of an administration is in, we're in for an even bumpier ride than with Bush.

 

[tjs4x4]

I have only read the first page of this thread so I am assuming there is just an exhaust issue and other minor stuff. Just fix it. Rust doesn't make it a bad or unreliable vehicle. My DD is 14 years old and has 200k and a lot of rust too, not scared of keeping it though. You have a shit load of debt and a car that runs and drives. Obvious solution.

Yes, so far, that is the only real major issue is the exhaust is gone. The engine is the original engine, I am now estimating probably about 210K miles on the engine. I've done alot of upkeep on it Only time will tell if its that that goes first, or the tranny since both are the original parts. Or even the clutch. When my stang does sell, I HAVE to have a reliable vehicle. That is wherein lies the problem. I guess I can't worry about it breaking down until it happens, but then again, if that happens, I have no way to get to work etc....

 

[Shran]

Just don't worry about it. Put $500 aside in savings after you sell the car in case something happens to the Ex. If you buy something else and are back into car payments and something happens to the new car, you are right back at square one.

 

[tjs4x4]

True. I will do that. Save some extra $$$ from the sale of the stang just in case! I'm going to go underneath the ex now and see if i find the dreaded rust lol.

 

[tjs4x4]

The ONLY rust that I have found is on moving parts underneath and on some of the frame rails. I poked and poked the panels underneath, and no holes formed. WHEE. Also the rust on the rear quarter panels at the top of the fenderwells is the only other rust on my explorer. Hopefully this is a good sign.

 

[4.0B2]

well i'd say keep it... lol. that's my answer.
but you gotta do what's best for you. replacing it will be expensive and just get you debt again. i'd rather live not being owned by the bank.. why create more debt to get rid of debt?

 

[tjs4x4]

Exactly. I AM going to keep it. Fix it up as I can, and go from there. I just need my car to sell so I can pay off our darn credit card!!!

 

[4.0B2]

that's sad. it really it. i wish i could buy a mach 1 lol.

just remember treat an RBV right, and it'll take care of you forever

 

[tjs4x4]

RBV?

Yeah, don't wanna sell the mach, but I can't afford gas in her tank even..so...

 

[4.0B2]

rbv, ranger based vehicle

 

[tjs4x4]

OHHH ok lol. Thanks