Should I fix my car or trade it in?

If the repair plus likely next-12-month repairs cost less than 40% of the car's value AND the bodywork/structure is sound, fix it.

Here's a quick, honest answer from a working UK mechanic — what causes it, what it costs to fix, and what to do next.

Can I sell privately with faults? — Yes — but you must declare them honestly. Misdescription is a criminal offence under Consumer Rights Act 2015.

What about scrapping? — An ATF (Authorised Treatment Facility) gives you a Certificate of Destruction and pays scrap value — usually £100–£400 for a complete car.

Bob's Mechanical Repairs — independent family-run garage in Birnam, Dunkeld, Perthshire. Call 01350 727 276 or email [email protected].