When to repair your car and when to scrap it in the Phoenix-area

The decision can be a lot more difficult for some more than others: when should you just get rid of your current car, rather than pay to have it fixed?

The answer is complicated, but you should know your options before you make a decision. In the meantime, we’ll help break down a few of the more common situations.

The cost to repair is greater than the value of the vehicle

Whether or not it was in an accident, some repairs (especially on older vehicles) vastly outweigh the value of the vehicle. Having your transmission rebuilt can cost thousands of dollars, but if your car is only worth a couple grand, is it really worth it?

Obviously every situation is different, because while this seems like a clear-cut answer, (outside of sentimental reasons) if you feel confident you’ll be able to put another 100-thousand miles on the car after getting the necessary service done, that is surely far cheaper than going out and buying a new car to replace it.

Rust is destroying your car

Truth be told, there is next to nothing you can do once your car is totally rusted out. Not only is it structurally unsafe if your car has holes rotting through it, it reduces the value of your vehicle to next to nothing as the scrap metal is virtually worthless.

Fortunately, living in the Phoenix-area means that rust is highly uncommon in vehicles that have spent their life in an area with such little moisture.

Your car has been in a major accident

Obviously, it’s not ideal to own a vehicle with a salvage title, as you won’t be able to resell it for nearly what it used to be worth when the time comes, but even being without your car while it’s in a body shop can be costly in and of itself. In these situations it can be better to take the insurance payout, walk away, and start fresh with a new car.

At The Auto Shop, we help our customers keep their personal, business, and fleet vehicles on the road long into their lives and mileage. Call us today for a quote or second opinion and you’ll quickly learn why we’re the go-to for vehicle repair and maintenance in Phoenix and the surrounding area.

If you’re looking for mechanics in downtown Phoenix, call the The Auto Shop at (602) 256-6164 or Schedule an Appointment. With more than four decades of service to our community, we’re happy to discuss your auto repair needs and provide a solution.

Schedule an Appointment

Customer Reviews

I want to thank you for such 'over the top' courteous, prompt and very reasonably priced service! (Not to mention your shuttle man!)

~ Kristen L.

Thank you very much! I’ll recommend your shop to my friends and relatives.

~ Marina K.

Everyone was so friendly and honest, which is exactly what I needed.

~ Lucy S.

You went out of your way to help me and I appreciate it. The fact you wouldn't take any money from me says something about your character.

~ John M.

Their staff and mechanics are true professionals who go out of their way to do their best and get us back on the streets.

~ Matt Kirkpatrick, Promotions Coordinator,
Power 92FM

We've received excellent service and advice. We believe they give us the best product and service for a fair and reasonable price.

~ Paul Secaur,
Realty Management Administrator,
SCF Arizona

Thanks for fixing my brakes. You guys are GREAT and all the squeaks are gone.

~ Kayla D.,
Helping Hands for
Single Moms

I have continuously trusted The Auto Shop, knowing they always have our best interest at heart. Service is always done right at a fair price.

~ Earl Powles

It's important my fleet be in top mechanical condition. I've been using The Auto Shop for several years... I'd highly recommend them for your automotive maintenance.

~ Terry Kurtright, Operations Manager,
KPHO-TV5 Phoenix