f/u Car problems

[simpsongal]

I took my car to another shop to get a second opinion. I haven't gotten the final tally, but the shopgirl said it might be even more expensive ($1350+) than the other estimate. FML.

The second shop found similar things wrong with the car as the first, and a few other ones too. For some reason the check engine light went off, so the second shop didn't consider the frayed ignition wire and a few other things. Potpourri for $200, Alex.

ETA: I just talked to the second shop - she said they understand that it's a local car and would try to fix everything necessary to get through safety and emissions for $780. I told her to go ahead...I hope this works out.

I don't know what to do. If I go to the first place, they'll fix it for about $1350, but there will be things they don't address. If I go to the second place, same issue, probably more money (no brainer there).

Should I just start trolling the Carmax website? Should I roll the dice, pay the $1350, and hope I get a couple years out of the car? WWYD? Sidenote: we could probably live without a second car for a few months.....