What's the best move for a car in this 'market'?

Soldato
Joined
18 Oct 2002
Posts
4,158
Location
UK
All,

My 2012 Focus Titanium (102k miles) has today had a problem. I think it's the gears - the car has a strange grinding noise when accelerating, it is hard to get it in to gear, and it feels as though it's going to stall when idle. I've not yet contacted a garage, so this might be premature, but I think the repair will be pretty costly (though I would be THRILLED if somebody here could tell me what the problem might be and how much the fix might be - won't be able to get to the garage until tomorrow!).

Anyway: with the assumption that the cost is significant, it might well be a good time to get a new motor. Of course, in the broader sense, it doesn't seem to be a 'good' time at all - with the market conditions as they are.

Does it even make sense to go second hand? I can afford to buy new (but would rather not, if it can be avoided) - are these prices just as inflated as the second hand market? Just trying to be most efficient with my money!

I have a small family, so need a car seat, and I also do a significant amount of miles. Where should my focus (ha!) be? I'm honestly clueless with cars, so would appreciate the guidance.

So:

- Is it better to buy new in this market, or are they both inflated?
- Either way, what potential makes/models would be worth my while investigating? Have no concern about engine size, looks etc. However, if I'm going to be advised to buy new, then I will consider anything.

Budget for second hand/new is pretty flexible - but I would like the best value for money (of course!).

Thanks for helping out a real novice...
 
Real food for thought in this thread folks. Genuinely very grateful! Would the ‘engine’ light come on with any of the potential causes above?!
 
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