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My 1991 Honda Civic 3dr LX Auto car with 166 584 ODO reading has failed its WOF and needs rust repair and repair to the steering rack which could total $1200 according to the verbal assessments from my mechanic and a panelbeater. I have had this car for about ten years and bought it from my Grandmother. It has been well maintained, although not garaged for most of its life. The paintwork is in terrible condition, with chips and a dull patch on the hood over the motor. Other than that, it is very easy to drive and has been reliable. Would I be better off selling this car now, or paying for the repairs? I would imagine a replacement car could have unexpected problems worse than the car I know. We could only afford a second hand car under $5000. It is now a family car, so if we were to buy a new one, we would need something bigger. Any suggestions? Thanks.

The repairs to the Honda Civic will possibly be more expensive than the car is currently worth. Rust is something that always comes back eventually. You might be better off selling the car and using the money towards another car. In your price range you should consider looking at cars around the 1996 - onwards year. The Toyota Caldina (not the D4 engine -Direct Injection), Mazda's Familia and 626 and also the Nissan Pulsar are normally good choices.

Thanks for your advice - I have decided to buy a second hand car, and have viewed some, decided to go for 3 x diagonal seatbelts in the back seat, and looking around the $10 000 mark. Will post a question in the buying category asking about the models : Mazda Axela v.Toyota Caldino v.Subaru legacy v.mazda 6 v. Honda Airwave. Any comments? Thanks