Can Car Be Saved...?

[Michigan Majik]

I have an 89 Olds Trofeo, (Sporty version of a Tornado). The body is in beautiful shape, but because it's so low to the ground, the under carriage is rusted, and rotted... The exhaust system is rusted, the brake lines have been replaced, but they are rotting again, and at high risk of breaking at any time.
A couple weeks ago I had the power steering line replaced, as fluid was leaking down to my exhaust, causing it to smoke like crazy. Yesterday, the power steering fluid started leaking again, in another spot. My mechanic/neighbor said "it's the beginning of the end" To fix it will be expensive because it's in an awkward spot, and hard to get to. I can drive it without power steering, but it won't be easy...
To replace everything that needs replacing will cost alot. Yet the motor, and body are still ok...
It's not a good winter car, because it's so low, and plowing thru deep snow could easly tear my exhaust system out. I was planning to buy an old clunker to get me thru the winter anyway...
Is it worth fixing?

 

[Hamilton Felix]

Hmm.... This question comes from Michigan, land of salted roads and body rust.

Go to kbb.com and get the book value of that car. Be honest in your description.

I know how you feel. I have a 1988 Skylark that I just ruined, but the engine is still good. I have a 1987 Subaru with a bearing going out is the transfer case -- and I have a lightly rolled 1985 Subaru that has a good transfer case. And there's the 1983 Dodge Ram 50 (Mitsubishi Mighty Max by another name) 4x4 that needs work on its 2.3 liter turbodiesel engine. Other projects, too that these sprang to mind.

Odds are, it's cheaper to find another car. If you have tools, skills, and a shop, you MIGHT find a similar car for cheap with bad engine/trans that can accept your power train, but that's a lot of work.

Good Luck.

 

[Michigan Majik]

Thanks for your response, Mr. Felix...
My mechanic is discouraging about fixing it, saying he would feel like he's ripping me off. I'm going car shopping today.
I have a straight shot to work, so I can drive it without power steering, and friends who will give me rides. plus a bike, so I guess there's no rush to the inevitable.