The car was worth about 3500 and the repair was 2800. For me it came down to three questions:
1. If I fix it, will it last at least 3 more years? (Savings of estimated car payments [~$250] plus some extra for further repairs and hassle depending on your tolerance level)
2. Do I really hate the idea of having a car payment?
3. Do I still like my car?
If you say yes to all of these, go for the repair. If not, your decision gets more complicated