Repair vs Replace Calculator
Example: Repair cost now: 1200 $ · Years of life after repair: 3 yrs · Replacement cost: 6000 $ · New item lifespan: 12 yrs · Upkeep/yr (current): 400 $ · Upkeep/yr (new): 150 $ · Minor repairs/mo (current): 40 $
| Verdict (1=repair, 0=replace) | 0 |
| Repair path: cost/year | $1,280 |
| Replace path: cost/year | $650 |
| Repair path total cost | $3,840 |
| Replace path total cost | $7,800 |
Worked example
A $1,200 repair buying 3 more years, plus $400/year upkeep and $40/month in small fixes, runs about $1,020 per year of service. A $6,000 replacement lasting 12 years at $150/year upkeep runs about $650 per year. Replacing is cheaper per year here — the old machine is nickel-and-diming you.
Frequently asked questions
Should I factor in what I already spent?
No. Money already spent is gone whether you repair or replace, so it should not sway the decision. Compare only the future cost of each path — that is what this tool does.
What if the repair estimate is uncertain?
Use the higher end of the estimate. Repairs on old machines often uncover additional problems, so budgeting conservatively protects you from the classic trap of a "quick fix" that snowballs.
How do I value reliability and downtime?
A newer item that rarely fails has value beyond dollars — no missed work, no scramble for a rental. If downtime is costly for you, nudge the current-item upkeep higher to reflect the disruption.