I have a 2014 Hyundai Elantra (111k miles) and just bought a 2003 Saturn ion that has been SUPERBLY maintained (109k miles, manual transmission) for $3800. Last 12 months it cost me $3600 for a new transmission in my Hyundai, $3000+ for maintenance/repairs. At this rate having a car payment would cost about the same as maintaining these vehicles. I basically accepted that I either need 2 beaters or one nice new-ish car. I enjoy the safety net that having two vehicles offers, but at what point is the math not mathing?