Hello Everyone :)
I have a Holden Commodore VE SV6 Model Year 2008, which I bought around this time last year, from my mate.
It was in great condition until last month where issues started to appear. For some reason i think the engine is losing power. I tried to use fuel injector cleaner and replaced the engine filter with K&N air filter and replaced the spark plugs, which helped to restore some of the lost performance, but still I think there is some lost power.
There is only 155,000km up and the car is still in good condition but I'm only worried about the issues that just started to appear. Couple months ago, I have done the 150k service and replaced the coolant water and transmission oil and filter and changed most of the fluid.
Suddenly, after couple of weeks, I started to smell some burning smell coming from the engine. I saw some little red dots on the engine (water coolant), I ignored the smell as I can't afford to get it fixed. At that time, I saw some light smoke coming from the engine cover after short spiritual driving.
Went to a mechanic and they confirmed its leaking water and they replaced the top hose and plenum gasket which cost me around $300 for parts and labour. Yesterday I changed the front and back brake pads which I got from the last SCA deal and suddenly the front right calipers decided to fail. Calipers were holding tight and brake pads smoking! Anyway i got it fixed for another $200.
I'm not sure if I'm overthinking about it, but I think the car has started to reach a point of regular stuff will start to fail. Spare parts may be cheap, but I don't have the knowledge or the tools to do it my self.
I'm planning to have 1 month road trip around Australia and was wondering if I should do it or it might be risky? Keep in mind that I bought the car when I used to live in WA and I drove the car to NSW with no problem.Changed the oil before leaving and changed it when I arrived.
So I was wondering if I should sell the car and get another newer model one? I was thinking about Toyota Camry or Aurion 2010++ with less than 100k.
Your advice is highly appreciated. Sorry for the poor English :)
TL:DR;
Car parts started to fail slowly and was wondering if i should sell it now and get a newer model. Thanks.
UPDATE:
After some deep thought i have sold the car today. Now any recommendation on a nice car for $10k? I'm really thinking about Nissan pulsar, i can find something around 2014 and have under 60000kms? Or Toyota Aurion 2008-2011?
Get rid of it and buy a Japanese car :)