Keep or Replace
Decision guides for working households: keep it, fix it, run it out, or replace it. This section is primarily U.S.-focused; taxes, fees, insurance, and inspection rules vary by state and by country.
Start here: Keep vs Replace Checklist and Hidden Costs of Replacing.
Keep vs Replace Checklist
Fast practical framework for the “Do I keep it?” decision.
Hidden Costs of Replacing
Taxes, fees, insurance changes, and unknown-history risk.
Drive It Till It Dies
When the strategy works and how to do it safely.
Budgeting for Repairs
A simple approach to stop repair bills feeling like emergencies.
Extended Warranty Economics
Evaluate coverage like an insurance product.
Sunk Cost Fallacy
Don’t let past repairs trap you.
Keeping an Older SUV
Utility vs operating costs and predictable wear items.
Repair Costs More Than Value
Value vs utility vs replacement risk.
When to Stop Fixing
Warning signs you’re in a money trap.
Keep or Replace a Minivan
Family reality check for budget decisions.