I've got a 2001 ford focus sedan. I don't know a whole lot about this stuff, but I'm pretty sure its all stock. It's got about 130k miles on it and I would much rather just make it better than buy a new car. I am looking to make it last as longer and essentially want to make it "Like New" to the best of my ability.

I'm trying to figure out what my best course of action is. I'm not looking to spend much more than 3k, though I could go up to 4, or even 5k if its really needed, though I'd prefer not to.

I've been considering an engine rebuild, but a few people have told me that that isn't worth it?

I definitely want to get all the hoses and gaskets and wires replaced, but what else should I do. I want to make it last as long as possible and replace as much as is needed.

I appreciate any help or recommendations.

Thanks,

Obediah

If you love your car and hate a car payment, rebuild it, and put some effort. I look at it this way, I'd rather have 0 dollar a month car payment and put money into it. Versus a car payment and put money into it. If you like your car put the work and make it last. If the engine blows, and the body is good. Swap the motor. With proper maintence these cars can last 250k+ plus as can anyone car if taken care of correctly.

If it ain't broke don't fix it.
and not, if it ain't broke fix it 'til it is.

Put the money in the bank. Let it draw interest, pathetic as it may be. And use the money to fix things when they break.

Seems that once you start fixing things everything starts to go bad.
Put new brakes on, wheel bearing decides to go.
replace wheel bearing, CV decides to go bad.
replace CV, radio dies.
It just isn't worth it IMO until it really needs it or becomes a safety issue.

If it ain't broke don't fix it.
and not, if it ain't broke fix it 'til it is.

Very true. If you want your car to last for another 130k miles, I wouldn't do any more or any less than you have in the past. Stick with your basic maintenance schedule as provided with the owner's manual.