Hmmmm..., To keep or not to keep, that is the question Options

[jtmlb3k]

So I'm moving to Philly to start a new job in mid-August, and am trying to decide what to do with the Celica. It's 16 years old, has 130xxx miles on it, and while I've kept it in as best shape as I can (3500 mile oil changes, new fluids whenever needed, a car wash and vacuum once a week), some things are starting to go.

Brought it by a mechanic today who quoted me for the following:
New front rotors and pads (old ones are warped)-- $180
Power steering pump-- $125
Transmission flush-- $150


Not sure if this includes labor or not, but I'm looking at a decent chunk of dough for those repairs. And that's not to mention the new bumps, dents, and peeling clear coat the car has acquired over the last 6 months (when my sister drove it). It's not looking good, but it still cruises on the highway and it's paid off, which is a big factor-- and plus, it's my first car.

So my question to you guys is: what would you do? Would you pay the money to fix it up and hope it lasts a couple more years (would be huge to not have a car payment to worry about in addition to college debt), or would you say sayonara and go trade it in for something more reliable (my commute each day will be roughly 40 miles, so that is a concern)? And are any of those repairs things I can so myself with a mechanic's wrench set and very limited knowledge of cars?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[SwissFerdi]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Brembo-25425-Front...40f&vxp=mtr

$40 dollars, there's your rotors...will probably be better than whatever generic your mechanic would use. Another $66 for the front brake pads, and you've just saved yourself $74!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/HB318F-669-Hawk-Pe...8d5&vxp=mtr

This is a nice street setup, capable of auto-x conditions as well. Much better value for money than going through your mech.

Have a look around RockAuto.com for the power steering pump, they usually have a good rate. The transmission flush may not even be necessary, unless the tranny is slipping or otherwise acting odd. It's a good measure to take, but it is also important to remember that completely renewing the tranny fluid can cause issues if a piece of metal becomes unlodged.

This post has been edited by SwissFerdi: Jul 23, 2012 - 12:08 AM