Is it better financially to do a $1000 repair or to get a new pre-owned vehicle?

You've got to think in terms of practicality. You have a 12 year old car with over 100,000 miles, that also has other problems. If it's paid off, you'll probably still pay the equivalent of a car payment each month to keep it running, so why not get a newer used vehicle with lower miles? And how many miles does the engine have that you're wanting to put in it? By the way, water pump, belt, and drums and rotors are things you'd have to replace after time on any vehicle...if those are "annoying maintenance issues" to you, better start riding a bicycle

i'm exceedingly particular that the Vibe/ Matrix dont are available AWD, like numerous different dude suggested. And, he's proper to point yet another Subaru. in spite of the undeniable fact that, it kinda relies upon on what your desires are. because of the fact if youre searching for an AWD suv, then your alternatives are abundant. yet once you % somebody extra automobile based, the Subaru Impreza or Outback could be sturdy, sturdy alternatives. It truly easily relies upon on your budget and what youre searching for. yet, you dont truly specify, so as that's the superb i can do. e mail me in case you have different questions.

Well everything that u described is normal wear an tear other than the engine. The malibu itself isnt really known for lasting a lifetime either tho (I work at a chevy dealership) if it was me i would have the engine replaced as you should expect more than 100k miles out of it anyway. In the long run it will be cheaper to maintain the malibu.

CHANGE YOUR FLUIDS REGULARLY!

preventitive maintainence will save you a load of money

For $1000 you are buying a junk yard engine and could find yourself with the same problem as your in now. I would sell your car as is and get something with a little warranty.

A decent used car is gonna run you about $2000 at least, I would just fix it but if you're looking to sell your car (its gonna be tough with that knocking) then if you really want a different car then do it. I just want to warn you it can be difficult to find a reliable used car for sale.

A new car typically loses an estimated 20 percent of its value the moment you drive it off the dealer lot. Your existing car has already taken that depreciation hit