Well, I’ve taken the minivan to two more mechanics and it definitely has “problems”.  Long story short:  I could buy a 2000 model Town & Country for less than the costs of repairing the one that I now own.  So, here’s what I “think” I’m going to do.

I’ve spoken to a friend who sells cars, and I’m hoping to trade-in my current minivan for a newer model - 2004 or 2005 - and pay cash for the difference.  I have enough money in savings to cover the cost of the transaction - and I’m definitely NOT going to borrow any money.  There’s no real “rush” to get the deal done, because my wife can drive the Accord and I can drive my old pickup.  So, sometime between now and February, I’ll make the deal.
I am going to take my time, find a vehicle I like, and then make the purchase.  It’s strange.  This will be the first vehicle I’ve ever purchased “for cash” - in the past, I always financed the purchase of automobiles.  Inevitably, I would focus on “the payments” and believe that I could “afford it”.  Now, I’m focused on features, reliability, cost of ownership, and price.  (I will admit, the idea of writing such a large check kinda-sorta freaks me out!)