What would you do?

[lptools]

Hello, All. I own a 2004 Chevy Silverado 1500 Extended Cab, with 186000 well cared for miles. I recently bought a new small SUV for getting around when I don't need a truck. I took the collision insurance off of the truck ( bad decision ), and within 3 months of having no coverage, I hit a bollard at work. The bollard won the fight. I did somewhere between $2500-$3000 worth of body damage. The truck has very little rust, I have used the Rust Check ( rustproofing system ) since day one. It's mechanically sound, and I just had the ABS hubs replaced, along with some other work. I have had an offer of $2000.00 for the truck, As Is. I'm leaning toward fixing it,  unless the potential buyer comes up with a better offer. Just looking for moral support!!! Thanks, Lou

[Papaw]

Bought and paid for ?
If so, I would fix it and keep it . You will always need a pickup and new ones cost the price of a small farm these days, along with all the "modern" parts and computers.
I keep my '98 GMC Sierra going because I don't like new ones and the note that comes with them.

[lptools]

Hello, Papaw. Thanks for the reply, and the support. It was paid for 120,000 miles ago!!!!  My math was off the first time!!!! Regards, Lou

[amecks]

Don't forget all the stuff you have custom fit in the truck bed.  Will that fit easily into a newer truck?
I'm sorta in a similar situation, trying to figure if I should sell a pickup I rarely use.

[lptools]

Hello, Al. Yes, it would be a lot of work to start over!!! Time to get it fixed!!! Thanks, Lou

[john k]

Fix it.   Drive a 97 1500 with 200K+,  runs great,  is quiet,  no payments,  am thinking about repairing some of the rust.  Take $50K to replace it and not be as nice to drive. 

[Northwoods]

Right.  When someone asks you what the best pickup is, tell them it's the one that is paid off.
Years ago, I knew a young 30's fellow who was just itching to trade for a new pickup.  He wanted it bad.
I told him that by driving my Ford beater instead of buying new, I had saved enough money to put one son through college.
He wouldn't listen, though.

[Bill Houghton]

Sometimes some folks really want shiny.

[coolford]

If you have $50,000.00 ($48,000 plus $2,000) reward the new truck dealer, empty your pockets and buy a new truck.  If not I would repair the truck you have which still runs good.

[slip knot]

I had the same dilemma last year. the old hoopty got smacked in the side. Nothing bad but $3500 to repair. at 20yrs old and 260K miles I decided it was time. I've been driving it for the past 16 months and finally decided on a new Super Duty. It'll be here in October.

If I can get 20 yrs out of this one it may get traded in on a power chair.   

[lptools]

Hello, Guys . Thanks for the support!!! The truck goes to the body shop Monday morning. The shop owner is working with me on this one, to help keep the cost down. Thanks again, Lou

[skipskip]

Good choice Lou

Skip

[lptools]

Hello, Skip. Thanks!! Truck is now at the body shop.Here is a photo of what "not being aware of your surroundings" looks like. Regards,Lou

[Nolatoolguy]

If it wasn’t for my work ide still be driving my 08 Silverado with over 100k miles. Work offers incentives for having your own truck, as long as it meets requirements. The first few months in the oilfield I used a company truck. Once I knew I wanted to stay with it I bought a new f450 and year old travel trailer. It didn’t make sense for me to keep using a company truck.

If I was just driving around town my needs would be different. I guess it all depends on a persons needs. It sounds like going to a body shop was a good choice for you.