Posts: 3514
Location: Elk River, Minnesota | Hi Everyone,
What comes to mind for me when thinking about upgrading to a newer truck has a bunch to do with what I can do maintenance-wise. Currently, I run a 2003 Ram 4x4 with the 5.7 Hemi. The truck has 129,000 miles on it and is still going strong. For me to make a change in vehicle, I will make a change of vehicle when the maintenance cost of the truck is near or at the same amount I would use for a vehicle payment. It is that point in time when a new truck is due. Right now, the cost benefit to buy a new truck does not make sense since the truck is paid off, and there are no maintenance issues. I have put some money into it: Front brakes a while ago, Rear brakes, Power-steering hose, a new set of tires, Front hubs, and a valve-spring replaced. Now..when I consider these items, one sticks out as something I would not expect to happen...the valve spring. Right now, I am only paying gas...not a payment AND gas. I still have a few items to do (transmission stuff) differentials, etc...but those are relatively quick and painless (again...dependent on what you feel comfortable doing yourself..)and for the most part, are preventative maintenance issues...
If you are a do-it-yourself kind of person, I'd say look at the cost to do the upkeep maintenance on it to make it go a few more years, then weigh your options from there.... It may be more cost-effective to keep the truck, or it may be the other way around...
These vehicles, when maintained well, will go for a long, long time...I am hoping to go over 200K with mine... (crossing my fingers...)
Steve |
