More Car (Auto) Advice

[RobertInOntario]

Hi Rob,
We just went through this, although the vehicle we wanted to replace was a newer Honda van that had day-to-day operating costs that we felt were too high.
I would replace the one in worse shape overall. For me that means the body - not just cosmetics, but the uni-body condition referenced above. Many of the newer cars have much better rust protection (important to us in the salt belt ) than those from even 12 - 15 years ago (i.e. pre-2000).
I would advise that you look up the internet forums of the vehicle you want to buy, and see what people are talking about. I know this has been immensely helpful for my VWs, and I wish I had done it earlier. Maybe it would have convinced us to avoid the Honda van too. Now, don't get me wrong, it was a great vehicle for what it was, but ultimately not the right fit for our family.
The forums can also be helpful in answering questions like you've posed above. E.g. My 98 Civic is in this shape, with this many km. What is the reasonable remaining life expectancy? What issues should I anticipate next?
Also, if your independent garage is good and trustworthy, ask about fixing existing or replacing with quality used parts. I have started to go this way more and more, and saved much $$$ over straight dealer shop replacement.
For the record, my cars are now a 2001 Golf TDI (217,000km) and a 2005 Jetta Wagon TDI (160,000km). I have no doubt that my daughters will learn to drive on one or the other (they are currently 7 & 10).
Andrew

Thanks, Andrew. I'll consider those forums. When we are ready to replace one car, I was thinking of narrowing it down to 2-3 models. We're quite pleased with our Honda, so I'm tempted to stay with Honda (the Honda Fit is a possibility). I really like Mazdas, say the Mazda 3 or 5. Consumers Reports and the Lemon Aid books are also useful references. Based on the mileage you've got on your cars, and on what other folks say, maybe we don't need to panic yet! Rob