Money honey

I am told that a rattle in my 1997 Passat 1.9TDI automatic estate is likely to be a cracked torque converter drive plate and the repair will cost £350. I do not wish to scrap the vehicle. I get the rattle in idle but this much reduces when in Drive. Otherwise I am offered £1,000 for this trusty stalwart that tows a trailer and carries my Bee kit, grandchildren and moves house as required by children. I have a second 2003 Passat estate, but this is Tiptronic and less loved, perhaps I should move this one on instead to fund my continuing affair with the old girl? I would appreciate your advice before taking the plunge.

Asked on 29 May 2010 by RK, via email

Answered by Honest John
I can't give psychological advice. If you are fond of your old car then it's worth spending money on it. But the day will come when it needs so much money you cannot sensibly keep on repairing it.
Similar questions
I have a motor caravan on a Peugeot "Boxer" 2.5TD chassis, circa 1996. The gearbox has recently been replaced. Now, if after driving for some miles and while in 5th gear I brake it becomes impossible to...
I have owned a Sept 2010 1.6TDI Skoda Octavia with the dry 7 speed DSG gearbox from new. Currently it has about 44,000 miles on. I like the car "it does what it says on the tin" However there is a recurring...
I have had a Corolla semi-auto for eight months. It suddenly lost power and failed to select gears. First repaired at a gearbox specialist workshop, having a gearbox, acutator and 2 ECU cards replaced,...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer