I bought a 2005 Honda Accord a couple of months ago. The milage is 184k miles. 2.4L.

It turns out the car has an engine problem - something is rattling inside the engine. The mechanic said it is likely oil pump and fixing it will cost me around $2500, but he advised not to fix it as it seems like the previous owner didn't change oil for years and it might be just a waste of money as something else inside the engine is likely to brake soon. He told me to drive it till the engine dies and then disposing the car. Another mechanic did not mention the oil pump but gave the same advice. There is a Check Engine light, but it is for oxygen sensor, not the engine itself.

The thing is that the car cost me $6600, and I already spent $3500 on different fixes like new CV axels, lower control arms, tensioner, belt, motor mounts, etc. So, it cost me more than $10000 by now.

So, the question is whether I should swap the engine when it dies (which will cost me $3500 only in parts and labor plus money for Uber as I do not have another car) or should I just buy another one. The transmission seems to be ok. The car itself never was in accidents. Overall cosmetic condition is not perfect, but not bad. I like the fact that the car is zippy, and it suits my needs, but I am not in love with it. It is my first car, but I wanted to keep it for several years. $3500 is cheaper than buying another car, but I am not sure it will be the last expensive fix and I will be able to use the car without spending more on it.

Thank you in advance for your thoughts.