so, i have a 05 civic ex with 153k miles and its paid off. i havent had the timing belt changed yet and i probably have a bad head gasket. i put close to 50k miles on it a year and my plan was to try and take it to 200/250k. there are some minor cosmetic issue like a cracked windshield a broken cover to the center console and the gas tank cover doesn't stay closed. should i trade it in now or put money into now with hopes of having it for one/two more years?

 

Id keep it for another year or two, and I would only change the timing belt and leave the cosmetic stuff alone

 

what makes you think you have a bad head gasket?

I 2nd the keeping it.... and if you change the timing belt, do the water pump at the same time... they are in the same area and have about the same lifespan

 

im losing coolant, and there are no visable leaks. and the heater blows cold air when idling

 

have you looked at your oil? and is there white smoke from the exhaust?

 

there is no white smoke, oil seems ok

 

yeah your timing belt is way past due! lol as for your gas tank cover.. go on ebay and buy another one..center console cheap! look on craigslist around your area n see who is parting one out or for all the parts you need.. i 3rd the keep the car it has alot of life left. do one think at a time and dont rush yourself the way gas prices are your saving in the long run.. if you trade it in the dealer is gonna pimp your sht out and give you a fat check with a car not worth its worth n a smile on his face

 

yeah i know. that is why time is of the essence.