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Couple things...

Statistically, the "service engine soon" light is most likely just the sensing computer on the fritz. That isn't necessarily good news. In many states, you are required to make those lights go off. That can be expensive. I know. One of those little SOB's once cost me close to $1000, and there was nothing else wrong with the engine. But California required that I make that friggin' light go off.

I like Jeeps too, but they are absolute pieces of junk when it comes to reliability. If you can't afford to own one -- and it sounds like you can't -- get rid of it. Don't put one more nickel into it.

I don't know about the Buick. I'd be inclined to get rid of it too, just on general principle. My experience has been that once a car starts becoming a pain in the butt, it continues to be a pain in the butt. You never can fix them. One thing or the other continues to go wrong. They become sink-holes for money.

By the same token, a good car should be driven until the tires go square. Never sell it.

If I were you, I'd do this:

Go down to your local public library and get last April's edition of Consumers Reports. That's their annual car issue. It's a commie magazine, but they do give good advice on some things. Cars are one of those things. They will give you better advice on this subject than any of us will. Cost is zero.

I agree with the person who recommended a Nissan Maxima. Nissans generally sell for less than Toyotas and Hondas, and they are every bit as good. Any Nissan will do. I personally like the Sentras. I buy my daughter two or three of them a year -- just as fast as she wrecks them.

Carmax sounds okay too.

Good luck!