indy says I need a new trans

[moxwell]

Have you ever had one of those days that just seem to be amongst the worst in your life. Well today was just such a day for me, there are few cars I can say I have grown attached to, dare I say feelings for, well my 300 sdl was just such a car. today I took my car in for a check up as she was having trouble shifting into the top gear and as the trans warmed up she would refuse to shift out of second gear. Well my trusted indy called me later on the day and told me the car needs a new trans and the cost would be roughly 5000.00, 5000.00, I had initially bought the car to save money as I am putting my wife thru school and I figured a good mercedes diesel would last me long time and not to mention the savings in fuel, did I mention 5,000.00? I did? Oh, anyway, I had read of a few reputable trans shops here on the forum and I mentioned them to him and he says that I would just be throwing my money away, considering my wife has a few years to go, I really can't afford to second guess him, He has always been honest with me. I get the feeling that he would rather I not spend a few thousand on a car that only cost me about 3500.00. So basically I am here asking if there is any hope for my car. The engine shows no blowby, body is rust free, paint is great. Engine runs stroooong!!! Sorry about the long post but, i really liked my car and I feel as if I lost a very good friend.