Below is a link to an article I found about how to get the most life out of your car.
Many of my clients find themselves in bankruptcy with a huge car payment (or 2)

This extra money could go a long way to get one out of debt, so if you can keep your car running for a few more years and avoid the temptation of getting a new car every 3 or 4 years, you can be on your way to financial freedom!

How to live past 150,000 (miles, that is)
From Aaron Gold,
Your Guide to Cars.
Aaron Gold
About.com Guide to Cars
http://cars.about.com
cars.guide@about.com