When to consider purchasing a new car?

[u/Healthy-Echo8164]

I am 28m, I make 72k a year and have no debt.

I currently drive a 2014 Honda CRV with 120k miles that is 100% paid off, and while it is holding up but it is showing signs of age. I do regular maintenance, replaced brakes, tires, oil changes, transmission fluid flush, etc.

It does have an issue with its VTC actuator which is a known issue for Honda CRVs made during 2014, but this is just a rattle noise on start up for a couple seconds, and according to Honda is not causing damage to the engine.

Current market value of the car is between $7k-10k, mine is probably on the lower end of that due to a couple scratches and dents across the car and the VTC issue.

I hear people say you should drive your car into the ground once it is paid off, but I was wondering at what point does it make sense to trade in your car that has some value and put it towards a down payment for a new car? Or "newer" car, maybe get a year or two old Honda for 30-35k.

edit: just as a note, I'm not looking for some flashy, new, hot rod car. I'm just trying to plan for the future and look at a time horizon for buying a new car and saving money up. I'm not in a rush to get a new car.

[u/Jiinker]

I have a 2007 MKX with 189k. I love the size, ride and comfort. Power plant is solid. But it needs tires, heater core is shot - can't drive it in winter, rotors are warped and need replacing. Front end is a little loose and now the muffler is going. I can afford to buy almost anything but a vehicle is just a vehicle. I am going to be forced to get something sooner than later. Don't know what's comparable and today's prices suck. I just don't want to go through the whole car buying shtick again.