Tips on Buying Cars: Sell or Keep 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe, hyundai santa fe, timing belt replacement

Question
I own a 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe base model (4 cyl)with 65K miles. I owe around $3500 on it. I had a front-end accident two years ago.  It was repaired through insurance and the body & interior are very good with newer tires.  This past January the shop I brought it to for the maintenance screwed up the timing belt replacement & ruined the motor.  I had the motor etc replaced & the car serviced by Hyundai (cost $3K)  I really want to get out of this vehicle and want a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. Should I trade in the Hyundai?  Or sell it privately.  Or keep it until paid for (Mar 09).  I get about 22mpg approx. and I don't really drive that much.  Thanks for your time.


Answer
hi carmen,
sorry for all the problems you have had. You have put a ton of money in the vehicle. If it is runnig well (which it seems), why get rid of it now? If you are comfortable i would just drive a little longer, as with all the work you have had it will definitely hurt the value. I would keep it and try and save some money for awhile...Let me know if you have any further questions. Good luck!!!!!


STEVE