Wants vs. Needs

[frugal saver]

I had to go to the tire store today because there was a screw in the tire and I didn't know if it would start leaking if pulled out.

The guy pulled it out, said it was fine, then pointed out that the original tires on my 2007 car were supposed to have actual tread on them, and I needed a full set.

My solution was to drive a half block to the dealership to see about buying the new car that I've wanted for the last 3 years.

If I broke a $10k CD for the down and made 0% payments of $160 for 48 months, I could have driven home a new car today. But the (basic) model I want doesn't come with the back-up camera (wanted for safety reasons) and the model that does have the camera also has a lot of unwanted features--roof rack, button start, bigger engine not really worth the extra $2k.

I want a new car. But I need new tires and a good wash.

sigh That car was pretty.

[cooliemae]

One suggestion would be to look at having the back-up camera done after-market. Don't know the particulars about the care you're looking at, but aftermarket installations might save you some money.

[feh]

I want a new car. But I need new tires and a good wash.

Bravo for resisting!

[disneysteve]

You were going to replace a car because it needed tires? A bit of an over reaction, I'd say.

As for back up cameras, the problem I see with them is that as with a lot of technology, people become overly dependent on it. They look only at the backup camera monitor and don't bother looking in the mirror or turning around anymore. The monitor shows some stuff but misses most stuff. I suspect those cameras are responsible for a lot of accidents.

[pflyers85]

You were going to replace a car because it needed tires? A bit of an over reaction, I'd say.

As for back up cameras, the problem I see with them is that as with a lot of technology, people become overly dependent on it. They look only at the backup camera monitor and don't bother looking in the mirror or turning around anymore. The monitor shows some stuff but misses most stuff. I suspect those cameras are responsible for a lot of accidents.

The other problem is that it is just another part that can break or malfunction. I guess you could always choose whether or not you want to get it fixed as its probably still going to pass inspection regardless but if you paid that much extra to have that feature you are likely going to want it to work at all times.

[Jluke]

Backup cameras are overrated; I think they are using them now b/c they are cutting down on the size of the rear windshield.

Now, if you buy a vehicle with the 360 degree camera view, then it might be more helpful. But that is well above basic models.

I would need more info to decide whether not buying the new car was the better choice.

general PSA: Please pay more attention to the life of your tires. Not just for your safety but for the safety of others on the road.

[disneysteve]

Backup cameras are overrated; I think they are using them now b/c they are cutting down on the size of the rear windshield.

That's disturbing if it's true. The backup camera is great for parking to see the bumper of the car behind you and to make sure there's nothing on the ground when you're backing up, but it certainly doesn't replace looking out the window or using your mirrors.

[DaveInPgh]

That's disturbing if it's true. The backup camera is great for parking to see the bumper of the car behind you and to make sure there's nothing on the ground when you're backing up, but it certainly doesn't replace looking out the window or using your mirrors.

I agree 100% with this. I LOVE my back up camera but it is not a replacement for using mirrors and looking over your shoulder. It is great for parking in tight spots.

Most importantly to me it allows me to see small children who have horrible parents. My child is involved with athletics and there is no shortage of small kids small enough that you would not see them standing behind your vehicle.

My back up camera has likely saved multiple lives.

[Fishindude77]

Backup cameras are not meant to replace driving skills, they are an additional tool to aid your safe driving. My new pickup has one and I like it. My driving really hasn't changed, still use outside mirrors for backing into parking spaces, backing into garage, backing up trailer, etc. Still use my outside mirrors and "bubble" mirror to check blind spots when switching lanes.

The backup camera comes in handy when parking close to another car such as parallel parking, or when backing up to a wall or fence when parking. You can see precisely where your bumper is, get real close and avoid impact. It's really sweet for hooking up a trailer hitch. I can see the ball on hitch and put it right under the trailer tongue first try.

Turning around in your seat and looking out the back window is not proper driving technique. If you learn how to use your mirrors, this is never required.

[disneysteve]

Backup cameras are not meant to replace driving skills

Of course not, but that's exactly how backup cameras and various other new technologies are used in real life. Accident avoidance systems encourage people to pay less attention when they're driving. Of course, most people aren't paying attention anyway as they are too busy talking, texting, snap chatting, facebooking, etc. so it's kind of good that we have these technologies because they way so many people drive today is horrifying.

[snafu]

If your current vehicle is operating satisfactorily, I suggest locating a discount coupon on-line and taking it to the car wash. While there, suggest spending a few minutes giving it a through vacuum [ceiling/floor/carpet/seating], throw out any trash, spray interior windows with a small amount of vinegar in water mixture and wipe dry with newsprint. Try calling the various auto wreckers within reasonable driving time for four correct sized, preferred brand tires. You will need to make an appointment at one of the shops with equipment to R/R mount and alignment. www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm.

If you live in a winter zone, this is a reasonable time to get an oil change based on mileage. Exchange summer for important winter equipment, [scraper/ brush, jumper cable, cell cord, $ 10.,candle/match, energy bars, flashlight, newspaper [insulation], knit cap, socks, mittens, sample sz. carpet [traction], water. *Corral in an old sport bag or backpack

If you truly want a back-up camera, buy after market, wireless all costing far less than 1st year depreciation on new car.

If you remain unsatisfied with your Vehicle and long for new, check KBB for trade-in or privately sell value. Suggest reviewing insurance cost for vehicle of choice to avoid surprises. What is the best online financing rate available just now? How do those rates compare with local?

[frugal saver]

Thank you all for your comments and advice.

I am, in spite of diligently lying, getting older and there have been times, usually in parking lots where I really wished I had better vision right behind the car. I've never had a backup camera before so I don't really know if it's truly necessary.

I was a little surprised about needing new tires. I do dealer servicing and they do a huge checkup and should have told me about it before. These are the original tires, nearly 10 years old, so I guess it's logical, but I only have 49,000 miles and I thought that tires lasted for more miles than that.

My original plan was to buy a new car next late Spring, and I already have someone ready to buy mine at a fair price. I'll have a big enough cash deposit and she'll have the cash to pay for my car, so I'm going to stick with that plan.

In the meantime, I'll be out there washing it this weekend, and getting new tires next week.

Editing to add: I'm looking at a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport in brown.

[LivingAlmostLarge]

Hey at least you resisted the urge!

I am right now fighting the wants versus needs with a house. We'll see what happens.

[GoodSteward]

I've been eyeballing this new 55" 4K Tv with a Roku built in for just 428$ at walmart. Do you have a spare CD you can part with?

I have a perfectly good Samsung Plasma and I just can't justify the money

[disneysteve]

These are the original tires, nearly 10 years old, so I guess it's logical, but I only have 49,000 miles and I thought that tires lasted for more miles than that.

Multiple factors affect tire life. Mileage, weather and road conditions, driving habits, and plain old age. 50,000 miles is not unusual. Plus I've read that tires should be replaced after 10 years regardless of mileage because the rubber does age.