My husband and I are debating whether to get a third car. His side: it would be convenient to have a third car if one of the others breaks down. My side: our other two cars are in good running order, and adding a new car to the mix doesn't make sense economically or environmentally. Our current cars include a 1996 Dodge Neon and a 1999 Toyota 4Runner. We own, no payments. I think we should continue to save money until we absolutely need a new car, but he says it is a pain to rent one every time he needs to work on one of the others. Today he told me, "Fine, you don't want another car, you can just walk to work the next time one of them breaks down." He truly thinks I am making a stupid decision by not wanting to tie up our budget in a car that we don't need right now. It's cheaper to rent one once or twice a year than to buy one and pay for it every month. Both cars are currently running well.
Uncle Pennybags2007-04-08T12:45:39Z
Favorite Answer
I'm on your husbands side to a point. I think replacing 1 vs having a 3rd car is the ticket.
The 1996 is 11 years old, and it was a cheap car to begin with. I think replacing the Neon would be a wise thing to do, unless it has unusually low mileage.
The 1999 is probably OK for a while yet.
If it's not going to be a burden on your finances, buying a newer car is a good decision.
If your cars are only breaking down once or twice a year I don't really see any need for a third. However, this depends on how long they are broken down for. If its only a week then thats fine but if its a big problem and you don't get around to it right away and it ends up being a month then I could see possibly getting a third car. However, If you were to get a third car I see no reason why you keep both the ones you have now. Would the car just sit in the driveway collecting dust waiting for another car to break down? that doesn't seem very smart to me. Also, it depends on what type of car you would get. Would it be more of a luxury car/sports car where people tend to drive them less often. Either way I'm still leaning towards no third car. Save up your money and when one of your cars (probably the neon first) completely fails buy a nice new one that will last you much longer then one you would get now.
I agree with you. I'd take the money you are saving and purchase something with long term value, and IRA or maybe a home, if you currently rent. The 4runner holds it's value, very well, while it's not a gas getter, it is multi-useful. The Neon doesn't hold much value, but it's paid for and you don't have to carry comp/coll, unless you want to. Insurance and car payments alone, are enough to sway me into keeping what you have, continue with proper maintenance on them, and save yourselves some cash.
I think personally you're decision is noteworthy. While having a extra car is luxary, it's not always that simple. What if you have problems with the new car, then that would just be a waste of money. If you have problems with your presents cars you can always maintainence them. As you said, it's better economically , environmentally, and for your budget. Spend the extra money taking care of your cars, and saving. This is why men shouldn't be in charge of bills and finances.
I see no economical reason to add a 3rd car. It's very clear from his remarks that he WANTS a new car, and need has nothing to do with it. He's "guilting" you into changing your mind. I'd rather just take care of my existing car. Why not just trade in HIS car and let him get one?