Help with decision. Opinions welcomed.

[Mhotep]

Here we go. Currently have a '97 Q45, which I've owned for about 4 years. Currently have about 1 yr to go on financing. Has about 140,000 miles, I've put about 50,000 on there. Well maintained with normal maintanence. Only problem I've had over the years are front and rear brakes and rotors, MAF 2 months ago, strut mounts 1 month ago, and regular maintence items, fluid changes, filters. Current problems paint damage on drivers front bumper, the plastic shield under engine and wheel well (or whatever the real name is) need to be replaced. Engine has occasional hiccup at stop light, transmission has harsh shift from 1st to 2nd, and less hard with 2nd to 3rd(time for a flush). My problem is I'm considering a newer model mainly because I want a in dash navi system and I like those HID headlights. I'm considering an 02 or 03 to replace her with. Do I get the newer car or spend money to fix the small issues with the '97 and install aftermarket in dash navi. Any recs for the headlights? Welcome any comments.

[maxnix]

Buy a 99-2001 headlight units (preferably new so they're not all scratched) and a Pioneer AVIC-Z1.

[Q451990]

I think it has more to do with how much you like your car vs. the newer body style.

Also, the financial impact and if you can stand it. It might be worth getting a transmission flush to see if that cures your harsh shifting. Also, I believe you can replace your headlights with HIDs from a newer model Y33? Maybe a 98 or 99? In dash Navigation can be accomplished pretty nicely with Pioneer or Eclipse AVN double DIN units...

Heath

[louiegz]

If you can swing the payments, then get the new car. You have quite a bit of miles and the repairs wont slow down. Who knows, the transmission goes and then you wish you went newer. Hell, I'm thinking of getting rid of my 95. After a while, new sounds like a good idea. Let it be someone elses problem.

[Mhotep]

That's how I feel. Who knows whats down the road. But I love that car. If people don't look closely most think it's new. Will be moving in a few months and didn't want the new car loan on my credit report when I apply, as I just cosigned for my wife's '02 Lexus ES.Thanks for the info on what model years should fit my headlights. I'd been leaning towards those bulbs that are close to xenon. The in dash navi that I'm looking at is a new one: JVC kd-nx5000. Seems to fit my needs and budget.

If you can swing the payments, then get the new car. You have quite a bit of miles and the repairs wont slow down. Who knows, the transmission goes and then you wish you went newer. Hell, I'm thinking of getting rid of my 95. After a while, new sounds like a good idea. Let it be someone elses problem.