Ford Repair: Should I do the repair or buy used vehicle?, ford explorer sport, dependable vehicle

Question
Hi, I recently got a diagnostic done on my 2001 Ford Explorer Sport.  It needs transmission, suspension and new tires.  Total cost $5,400-$5,600 depending on what transmission actually looks like when they get it apart.  In you opinion is it worth it to fix?  Can I assume that after fixing these major things that I will be able to have a running vehicle for at least 5 more years.  It has 130,000+ miles and I bought it used with 30,000+ miles on it and have had it for 5 years.  It's finally paid off and I can't afford to take on payments again so I would have to see if I could get a certified preowned vehicle or fix this one. I need a dependable vehicle for the commute I have to do for work and just don't know if it's worth it to put the money into repairing or trying to find something in a car that runs good and is going to be better on gas.  Thanks for your time.  I basically just want to know what you would do if it was you.  
Sincerely,
Jeanna


Answer
Hello Jeanna, This a question only you can really answer. But here is some food for thought. Do you still enjoy the vehicle ? Is the repair cost about the same as buying another car ? Do you plan on keeping it for a good while ? Does the accessories work fine like air, radio, lights ? Do you want to trade or buy something with better fuel econo ?   Hope this helps and good luck ! Thanks Tony