If you’ve recently been in an accident in Rohnert Park, CA or experienced a mechanical failure, you may be facing the decision of whether to salvage your car or attempt to fix the problem. If you’re thinking, “Wow, this is a great opportunity to get a different car,” then consider what you’ll be losing and the potential risks of an unknown car.

A Carful of Memories

You’ve likely had your car for a few years now, but it only takes a few months to experience some great moments. Not only that, but you also know what’s wrong with the car, every little piece that doesn’t work perfectly or the spot on the armrest that your arm rubbed off. If you’re thinking about getting another car (unless it’s brand new) you’re investing in an expensive pile of uncertainty.

If you’ve been in an accident and it isn’t your fault, then it’s likely that insurance will pay for any repairs to your current vehicle, so you can keep the car that’s fitted to you for free—it may even come back better than before! But buying another vehicle can come with a whole host of problems that typical auto insurance policies won’t cover, like:

  • Eminent mechanical failures that the previous owner hid when selling.
  • Regular repairs that are just around the corner, but you aren’t expecting.
  • Cleverly hidden hail or water damage.

While there are coverage options that may deal with these issues, it’s better to stick with the car you know and love. Unless you’re paying in full, then you also don’t want to get stuck in another car loan, the debt eating away at your wallet and peace of mind. There are few things better than an asset that is completely your own—like a paid-off car.

Restore your Car and its Memories

By choosing to repair your car, you’re choosing to protect your investment and channel your funds towards something you already (or are about to) own. You aren’t only investing in the material car though, you’re investing in all the memories you’ve had with the car, your friends, and your family. Some people may have a hard time thinking about you without your car!

A skilled autobody professional can restore your car to better than when it was new; this let’s you have your cake and eat it too. So don’t salvage your car just because it sounds easier or a new car sounds cooler, be smart with your money and protect your investments (instead of throwing away the time and money you’ve already spent).