What to do about my good, old 98 Dodge Caravan with some problems?

autumn

New member
I'm desperate! My car has been a very good car with hardly any problems. All I had to do was the regular maintenance and it was super dependable. The body looks good, too - almost no nicks or scratches and no rust. About a year and a half ago, my mechanic noticed an oil leak. Unfortunately, it was an expensive one, that would cost $1,500 to repair. He advised me that, because of my car's age and mileage, it would be best for me to look for a new or used car to replace it.
I opted to try to make do, as long as the leak didn't get any worse. That was working out alright because it wasn't going through that much extra oil. Now, though, the water pump needs replacing, and that would cost around $700 - $1,000. I don't think I can even afford a good, used car right now to replace it with. I found out to put a new engine in (which would have taken care of both problems, plus other potential ones), would cost more than I was first quoted ($3,500) to $5,400. Is there anything else I'm not thinking of, or anyone have some suggestions? Should I just have the water pump repair done and hope it will keep running long enough to at least pay for it? It's too late now, but my car didn't qualify as a Clunker, either.
 
Look at a remanufactured engine installed by your mechanic. It's cheaper than a new engine, and comes with a warranty. Mini vans are tougher, particularly Caravans, because they have to raise the vehicle up and drop the engine out from underneath.
 
honestly you could actually get a re-manufactured engine and get it installed with all new external parts and come out cheaper if you want to keep this van,but really your going to be putting more in to the van than its actually worth,i just want you to know this before hand,nothing never goes as planned so be prepared for the actual bill to be a lot higher than originally priced, its up to you,it would really be cheaper right now to trade it in and find another vehicle,its your choice though ,but just keep in mind that all repairs made to it are going to be really expensive at this point ,good luck.
 
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