Should I keep my Matrix or go with the Avalon?

Seeking Advice
1

Edit: Sorted out now… the Matrix is history, and Avalon, here I come. I’ve got a Toyota Matrix with 180,000 miles and some body damage, but my grandpa is offering me his Avalon with only 40,000 miles. The catch? I’d need to drive it across the country, which would take a few days.

Is having fewer miles on a car worth it for safety or as an investment? I’m kinda nervous about leaving behind my trusty hatchback that I’m so used to. Thoughts?

2

Go for the Avalon. Even if it’s not your thing, you could trade it in for way more than the Matrix is worth.

3

Just take the trip, sell the Matrix, and get to spend some time with grandpa while you’re at it.

4

Avalons are like tanks. You won’t regret making the drive.

5
  1. Why’s your grandpa giving you the Avalon?
  2. Your Matrix still has some life left, but selling it could cover the trip expenses.
  3. How old are you? If you’re young, a road trip across the country sounds like a fun adventure.

Sell the Matrix, enjoy the trip, and maybe take grandpa out for a nice meal as a thank you.

6

@Niall
Taking grandpa out for dinner is a great idea! Thanks for suggesting it.

7

The Avalon is a better car in every way—comfort, features, engine, you name it. The Matrix is decent, but the Avalon’s a different league.

If you can afford it, keep both cars. Having two reliable Toyotas is never a bad thing. If you’re tight on cash, sell the Matrix.

And hey, share some pics of the Avalon if you end up getting it .

8

@Leslie
Totally agree with this.

9

What year is the Avalon? Some models are so good they’ll feel like they’re adding years to your life. If it’s a hybrid, especially 2019 or newer, it’s a no-brainer.

10

Fable said:
What year is the Avalon? Some models are so good they’ll feel like they’re adding years to your life. If it’s a hybrid, especially 2019 or newer, it’s a no-brainer.

Both cars are from around 2004.

11

@Brooke
In that case, fly over, drive the Avalon back, and enjoy having two indestructible cars.

12

If you’re not taking it, let me know. I’ll go pick it up myself.

13

Looks like you’ve got yourself a solid winter car and a smooth summer ride.

14

Why not keep both cars? Take someone with you to visit grandpa, make it a road trip, and have some fun along the way. I’m over here trying to figure out how to buy a third car myself.

15

Arlen said:
Why not keep both cars? Take someone with you to visit grandpa, make it a road trip, and have some fun along the way. I’m over here trying to figure out how to buy a third car myself.

Guess I’ll have to call my ex for company… haha.

16

Low mileage is good, but if the car’s been sitting for too long without use, it might have some hidden issues. Be cautious.

17

Keats said:
Low mileage is good, but if the car’s been sitting for too long without use, it might have some hidden issues. Be cautious.

Thanks for the heads-up. I’ll keep that in mind.

18

Is the Avalon free? If it is, then yeah, it’s definitely a good deal. But we need more details—what year is the Avalon? How much could you get for the Matrix? And what’s making you hesitant about parting with the Matrix?

19

@Branley
Great points. I think I just got attached to the Matrix because I had plans to keep it forever, and it’s been great for hauling my e-bike around. But I ran a diagnostic, and the engine has several issues. Thanks for your advice.