Thanks for the comments.
One question was “What is my tranny doing?” At this point it is making a noise when in gear. I had my mechanic (I trust him and so do lots of “Yelpers”) diagnose it. He drove it, checked the fluid and replaced it. Noise is gradually getting louder. The clutch is ok, tho he said now is the time to replace it (when the tranny is replaced) but as that is another $8-900, I don’t think I’’ go that route.
I’m assuming it is worth the investment and I can get another 3 years out of the car.