Fix It-Don't Finance It! Why the Best Car Is the One You Already Own
About this episode
Exploring the philosophy of maintaining older vehicles, this episode emphasizes the importance of fixing what you already own instead of financing new cars. Host Niall Motor Mt. Jenkins shares personal stories and practical tips on preventative maintenance, highlighting the financial burden of car loans and the value of keeping older cars in good condition. With humor and relatable anecdotes, he encourages listeners to rethink their approach to car ownership, advocating for a mindset that prioritizes maintenance over unnecessary spending.
Fix it BUT don't spend any money, words I would hear quite often a repair shop owner, one day I will write that book from a service tech's perspective, till then listen up friends... In this episode of the Car Connection Workshop Podcast, we're talking about something most people overlook: the MOST reliable and most affordable vehicle in your driveway is the one that's already paid for. Before you give your old jalopy the stink-eye and send it to the crusher, take a second look:
1) no payments
2)no interest
3)body is solid
4)engine and transmission still strong
Instead of replacing it, invest a little time and a little maintenance-regular oil changes, fluids, brakes, belts, and small repairs to stay ahead of problems and save yourself THOUSANDS compared to buying "new to you" Today's car loans run 6-7 years with wild interest rates. Even a $4,000 repair is cheaper than years of payments. why not treat your older ride like a brand -new one and keep more of your money right where it belongs-IN YOUR POCKET? If you're trying to get through today's economy without drowning in payments, THIS is the episode you can't miss. "Fix it, don't finance it. the smartest investment you can make today is the vehicle already parked in your driveway." "Tomorrow morning I'm in the shop shooting THREE new YouTube videos, so make sure you're subscribed across every platform. Big things coming!"
Visit us anytime at our web site ccbusnet.com where you'll find our program partners and recommended businesses, links to our platforms: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, iHeartRadio, stevensvilleontheweb.ca click businesses tab, our podcasts are on all podcast platforms, and our merch store right there so you can grab some Car Connection Gear! connect with us online anywhere and everywhere! Thanks for listening & watching! DECEMBER CALL TO ACTION: Like ,share, and follow to help us push into 2026! Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform worldwide Join us on YouTube, Facebook & Instagram for daily automotive tips Hit the bell and never miss a Motormouth episode Grab the merch and represent the Car Connection Crew
Appreciate Ya'll very very much ! Happy Motoring! your Pal, NMJ
Mercury pickup truck
"...old 60-something mercury pickup truck. That's all I can remember. And I remember I got the job of painting out the engine bay..."
A Mercury pickup truck is a type of vehicle made by the Mercury brand, which was part of Ford. These trucks are known for being strong and useful for carrying things.
The Mercury pickup truck is a classic vehicle known for its rugged design and utility. Mercury was a division of Ford that produced a range of cars and trucks, often marketed as more upscale than Ford's offerings.
squirters
"...talking about the windshield squirters is just aim right at it take it off of spray and put it on stream..."
Squirters are the little nozzles on your car that spray water to clean the windshield. They help you see better when it's dirty or during bad weather.
Squirters refer to the nozzles on a vehicle that spray windshield washer fluid onto the windshield. They are essential for maintaining visibility in adverse weather conditions.
windshield washer fluid
"...my summer washer fluid in there and now everything's freezing up and your windshield washer jug is like half set jello pudding you got trubs..."
Windshield washer fluid is what you put in your car to clean the windshield. It helps you see better by removing dirt and bugs when you spray it on the glass.
Windshield washer fluid is a liquid used to clean the windshield of a vehicle. It helps remove dirt, grime, and other debris to ensure clear visibility while driving.
City Auto Sales and Leasing
"...thank you to earn louise grant at city auto sales and leasing in toronto their gta's premier pre-owned auto store..."
City Auto Sales and Leasing is a car dealership in Toronto that specializes in used cars. They focus on selling high-quality vehicles and offer financing to help customers buy cars.
City Auto Sales and Leasing is a pre-owned auto dealership located in Toronto, known for selling quality vehicles that are handpicked by the owners. They emphasize low mileage and fair prices, along with offering in-house financing options.
Porsche 356
"...ea they want to get after it and get it done 905 356 2221 in total freedom dairy total freedom rather ..."
The Porsche 356 is an old sports car that was made a long time ago, from 1948 to 1965. It's important because it was the first car made by Porsche and is loved by collectors for its style and performance.
The Porsche 356 is a classic sports car produced by Porsche from 1948 to 1965. It is significant as the first production automobile by the company and laid the foundation for Porsche's future models, known for its lightweight design and exceptional handling. The 356 is often discussed for its historical importance and as a collector's item.
Toyota Mirage
"...the first one came out in 1982 was called the mirage and they only made 500 and i missed it...the four-wheel drive version that was the uh canada was the only toyota dealers that got the four-wheel drive version of the mirage..."
The Toyota Mirage is a small pickup truck that was made in very limited numbers. It was available in Canada with four-wheel drive, but in the U.S., it was mostly two-wheel drive.
The Toyota Mirage was a compact pickup truck introduced in 1982, known for its limited production of only 500 units. It was notable for being available in a four-wheel drive version in Canada, while the U.S. market received a two-wheel drive long box variant.
Toyota 4x4 Pickup
"...1983 short box toyota 4x4 pickup called a mojave number 222 out of 500 if i could have bought that cash the day that i purchased it was 11 200..."
The Toyota 4x4 Pickup is a tough truck made for driving on rough terrain. The 1983 version is one of the earlier models that helped Toyota become popular for making reliable trucks.
The Toyota 4x4 Pickup is a compact pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. The 1983 model is part of the early generations that established Toyota's reputation in the truck market.
refinance
"...and i had to refi at once because we weren't done yet and the the loan was matured..."
Refinancing means getting a new loan to pay off an old one. People often do this to get a better interest rate or lower monthly payments.
Refinancing is the process of replacing an existing loan with a new one, typically to secure better terms such as a lower interest rate. It can help reduce monthly payments or total interest paid over the life of the loan.
Chevrolet Blazer
"... else and Chevy products i think he bought her a blazer so anyhow so i'm paying now 17.93 percent on 11 ..."
The Chevrolet Blazer is a type of SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff, and it looks sporty. It's popular because it's comfortable to drive and can be used for many activities, like going on trips or running errands.
The Chevrolet Blazer is a mid-size SUV that has been produced in various forms since 1969, with the latest generation reintroduced in 2019. It is known for its sporty design and versatility, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Blazer is often discussed for its blend of style, comfort, and performance.
interest rate
"...so i'm paying now 17.93 percent on 11 200 yeah by the time i paid it off..."
The interest rate is how much extra money you pay back when you borrow money. A higher rate means you pay more in the long run.
An interest rate is the percentage of a loan that a lender charges for borrowing money. It affects how much you pay back over time, with higher rates leading to higher total payments.
loan maturity
"...and the the loan was matured i paid double that i paid over 22 thousand dollars..."
Loan maturity is when your loan is supposed to be fully paid off. If you haven't paid it all back by that date, you might need to get a new loan or pay the rest quickly.
Loan maturity refers to the date when the final payment of a loan is due. Once a loan matures, the borrower must pay off the remaining balance or refinance the loan.
original condition
"...and it's all it's it's all original all the mechanicals were all done..."
Original condition means the car is just like it was when it was first made, with no big changes. This is important for collectors who want cars that are as close to new as possible.
Original condition refers to a vehicle that has not been significantly altered or modified from its factory specifications. This can enhance its value, especially for collectors.
sticker prices
"...go take a look at some sticker prices and then figure out if you got to put say four grand into your vehicle..."
Sticker prices are the prices shown on cars when you go to buy them. They tell you how much the car costs before any discounts or negotiations.
Sticker prices refer to the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) displayed on a vehicle's window. This price includes the base cost of the vehicle along with any additional options or features.
preventative maintenance
"...change your mindset to do preventative maintenance not maintenance when the car forces you on the back of a flatbed or the side of the road waiting for roadside assistance but keeping the maintenance up..."
Preventative maintenance is taking care of your car regularly to stop problems before they happen. Instead of waiting for something to break, you do small checks and fixes to keep everything running smoothly.
Preventative maintenance refers to regular, scheduled maintenance tasks performed on a vehicle to prevent potential issues before they arise. This approach can help avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of the vehicle.
Lucid Air
"...s a 1999 honda civic two-door hatchback five-gear air one owner and an 07 toy on fj cruiser it's headi..."
The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car made by a new company called Lucid Motors. It's special because it can go really far on a single charge and has a lot of high-end features that make it feel luxurious.
The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan produced by Lucid Motors, known for its impressive range and high-performance capabilities. It represents a significant step in the electric vehicle market, competing with established brands like Tesla. The Lucid Air is often discussed for its innovative technology and luxurious features.
Honda Civic
"...so hmm the oldest vehicle i drive is a 1999 honda civic two-door hatchback five-gear air one owner and a..."
Toyota FJ Cruiser
"...tchback five-gear air one owner and an 07 toy on fj cruiser it's heading for 400 000 k and how do i do it i'l..."
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a tough SUV made for driving on rough roads and trails. It has a cool, old-fashioned look and is popular among people who love outdoor adventures.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is an off-road SUV produced from 2006 to 2014, known for its retro styling and rugged capabilities. It has a strong following among off-road enthusiasts due to its durability and performance in challenging terrains. The FJ Cruiser is often discussed for its unique design and off-road prowess.
structural integrity
"...as long as the structural integrity of the vehicle is good that means you know your..."
Structural integrity means how strong and safe a car is. It ensures that the car can handle the weight and stress of driving without breaking.
Structural integrity refers to the ability of a vehicle's structure to withstand its intended load without experiencing failure. It's crucial for safety and performance.
curb appeal
"...don't look at what it's worth curbside forget that see dealers today they don't want you to service your vehicle..."
Curb appeal is how good a car looks from the outside when you see it parked. A car that looks nice from the street is more likely to catch someone's eye if they're thinking about buying it.
Curb appeal refers to the attractiveness of a vehicle when viewed from the street. It's an important factor for potential buyers, as a visually appealing car can create a positive first impression.
pre-owned car market
"...the pre-owned car market is a hot market because there's not enough inventory for those who can't afford to buy a brand new car..."
The pre-owned car market is where people buy and sell used cars. When there aren't many new cars available, more people look for used ones, making them more valuable.
The pre-owned car market refers to the buying and selling of used vehicles. This market often becomes more competitive when new car inventory is low, leading to higher demand and prices for used cars.
high mileage
"high mileage what are you going to get for 15 something that's approaching 300 or well over 200"
High mileage means the car has been driven a lot, usually over 100,000 miles. Cars that have high mileage might need more repairs and could be less reliable.
High mileage refers to a vehicle that has accumulated a significant number of miles on its odometer, typically over 100,000 miles. Cars with high mileage may require more maintenance and repairs due to wear and tear.
car payment
"what are you going to go without in order to make the car payment"
A car payment is the money you pay every month to buy a car that you financed. It helps you pay off the loan you took to buy the car.
A car payment is a monthly payment made to finance the purchase of a vehicle. This payment can include principal and interest on a loan, as well as taxes and fees.
financial pressure
"extra financial pressure so what are you going to go without in order to make the car payment"
Financial pressure is the stress you feel when you have to manage bills and debts. It can make it hard to decide how to spend your money.
Financial pressure refers to the stress or burden that comes from managing expenses, debts, and financial obligations. It can impact decisions regarding spending and budgeting.
fluid changes
"before it's broken stay up with the fluid changes and the oil changes don't push the thing don't drive it like you stole it baby it and make it go the distance like me 400 approaching 400k"
Fluid changes are when you replace old liquids in your car with new ones. This helps your car run better and last longer.
Fluid changes refer to the regular maintenance of replacing old fluids in a vehicle, such as engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. Keeping fluids fresh is crucial for the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
blown motor
"...nothing major is going wrong like you got a blown motor and the transmission slipping then that is a honey sickle baby you need to keep it going treat it with kit gloves keep it clean wash it respect it"
A blown motor means the engine has broken down badly and usually needs a lot of work or a new engine altogether.
A blown motor refers to a severe engine failure, often due to overheating, lack of lubrication, or mechanical failure. This condition typically requires significant repairs or even engine replacement.
transmission slipping
"...nothing major is going wrong like you got a blown motor and the transmission slipping then that is a honey sickle baby you need to keep it going treat it with kit gloves keep it clean wash it respect it"
Transmission slipping happens when your car's gears don't work right, making it hard to drive smoothly. It can be caused by low fluid or worn parts.
Transmission slipping occurs when the transmission fails to properly engage gears, leading to a loss of power and control while driving. This can be caused by low fluid levels, worn-out components, or other mechanical issues.
jalopy
"...don't get caught up in that fix it but don't spend any money it's an old jalopy you know some of my best vehicles have been five hundred dollar beauties..."
A 'jalopy' is an old car that looks worn out and isn't in great shape. People often use this term to describe cars that are cheap but can still be enjoyable to drive.
A 'jalopy' refers to an old, dilapidated car that is often in poor condition but may still have some charm or character. It's typically used to describe vehicles that are not worth much money but can be fun to own and drive.
mechanicals
"...you go through it do all the mechanicals..."
'Mechanicals' are the parts of a car that make it work, like the engine and brakes. It's important to keep these parts in good shape to ensure the car runs safely and smoothly.
'Mechanicals' refers to the mechanical components of a vehicle, including the engine, transmission, brakes, and other systems that are essential for the car's operation. Ensuring these parts are in good condition is crucial for vehicle safety and performance.
rust proofing
"...if i want keep the rust proofing up so the body doesn't go you got yourself a creme de la creme big time..."
Rust proofing helps keep cars from getting rusty and falling apart. It's like putting on a coat to protect the car from bad weather.
Rust proofing is a process that involves applying a protective coating to a vehicle's body to prevent rust and corrosion. This is especially important for older cars that may be more susceptible to rust due to age and exposure to the elements.
paid for
"...best vehicle in the driveway is the one that's bought and paid for right now..."
A car that's 'paid for' means you own it completely and don't owe any money on it. It's a good feeling because you don't have to worry about payments anymore.
When someone says a vehicle is 'paid for', it means that there are no outstanding loans or debts associated with it. This can be a significant financial advantage, as it reduces monthly expenses and financial stress.
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