[polainm]

Thanks Barry. I find the whole sunk costs issue tricky. I'm OK with certain costs on an old car of low value, because the repair costs will still be the same as if new. The real issue I have is providence. As soon as I scrap the car, then go out and buy another at the same price as the repairs + a bit (assuming writing off the purchase price of the scrapped car), I am back to the beginning again in terms of 'luck' with major faults - I have no idea just how well the replacement car has been looked after. Fixing big faults *can* mean ensured trouble-free use. I've found that even a fully stamped up service book merely shows a garage 'did some work on it'. Brake check done in a service book I have, must have meant the brakes were 'barely OK, but useable' looking at the condition they are in. Such a money/time pit...