The Blue Saturn has been my friend for many years, but it is time to let it go.
I bought it new last century, and in the last decade put in maybe $1,000 in parts every year - wiper motor, water pump, whatever. It's still cheaper than a car pay.
Around the beginning of the month, the headlight switch failed again, so I took it to the dealer where they ordered the part, told me the head gasket needed replacing, and also the clock spring that controlled the driver side air bag. I said fine, just do it. It was going to be about $1500, with the spring paid in advance while they looked for aftermarket parts. I got the car back after a week of getting around on the bus and not feeling badly about it, although it meant giving up a lot of volunteering opportunities and getting up earlier to bus to where I walked with friends.
Blue Saturn came back but lacked pep. Going up hills faster than 15 MPH just didn't happen. I checked the tires; they were at pressure. I talked it over with Julie and she suggested the clutch. I called the dealer and while they insisted they could not diagnose without having the car on site to check, if it was the clutch or the transmission that was easily in the fourfigure range, assuming they could even get parts.
Kelly Blue Book was 1 to 2 thousand.
It's time to let the car go, with thanks for many years together. The dealer agreed to cancel the clock spring order (which was several weeks past the one week order estimate; it must have been harder to find than they thought.) They offered to refer me to sales, which was fine, but I'm going to take my time.
I want my next car to last a long time and to be the right car for me, and I am certain this means taking time to research, shop and ponder. We'll see.
Thank you, Blue Saturn.
