Only use credit cards as a convenience, not to go into debt to support a life style you can not afford. A car is a means of transportation and an ego trip. A car is not an investment. You repair a car to maintain the means of transportation not invest in it. If a car has been well maintained it may be worth repairing even though the fair market value of the repaired vehicle is low.
New cars lose more value in depreciation during the first few years.
Consider buying a pre owned vehicle. Avoid going into debt to make a purchase. Installment debt is expensive. Try to save for major purchases. Use coupons for grocery purchases and take advantage of sales.