"Trade it as-is or fix and drive for a while and recover some equity. "
Sounds simple enough, doesn't it?
Lol
I'll see if the dealer has anything to trade for, if not, I'll look some other places before I bring it home, or get it fixed.

They have a 2005 Silverado on their website, but, sheesh!, it only gets 16-20 mpg. I don't need another gas-guzzler.

Thank you for your advice. I really appreciate it.

 

 

No, not easy... I feel like I'm on Let's Make a Deal and Monty Hall is waiting for me to pick between doors #1, #2, and #3... and there's really no way of knowing which is the best decision.
Another thing to consider is, if I spend $1000/year for the next 6 years on the Saturn, that's what I'd be paying for another used car if I traded this one in - a used car that might need as many repairs as this one, only this one is paid for.
Times like this I wish my daddy was still around. .. he always knew the right thing to do. 8-)

 

 

So, the other option is to do nothing, drive it as is, add oil and water as needed. If I understand what you said earlier, it won't last long at all this way since coolant dripping on the timing belt will cause the timing belt to go bad pretty soon... and then we're back to square one: replace the timing belt and water pump for $800... oh, and risk other maor damage to the engine, right?
It seems to be settled. Bite the bullet and get the Saturn fixed.

I'm just spoiled. I've had very good luck with all my previous vehicles, none needing any major repairs. I traded my used 66 Valiant (cost $1,000 drove it ten years) for a used 93 Escort (cost $3000 drove it ten years), traded that for the 98 Silverado (paid $6000, still going strong).
My luck was bound to run out eventually.

Thank you SO much for helping me with this.

 

 

I have a 43 year old daughter who doesn't listen to me... I think I didn't really "grow up" until I was past 40, so there's hope for your daughter yet... maybe mine too.

 

Oh, one more question... generally speaking, who would be the best choice for doing the work - a local private mechanic, or the mechanic at the dealership?
Similar estimates from each.

 

 

Sounds like you're confirming my suspicions. I'll go with the mechanic at the dealer. I was very impressed with him, his honesty, and how he took the time to explain the issue to me.

Thanks, again!