OP, I was in a similar situation as you are in with a money pit of a car that I bought a few years ago that was a salvage title it infuriated me but I eventually came to the realization things would just keep going wrong with it and it would be best to replace it with a newer clean title reliable car. IMO the only option you should NOT be considering until you have tried everything else is the Rise loan. It sounds like you have your heart set on keeping the vehicle, fair enough I will outline what I would do in that case, but I believe you should also look into the possibility of finding a different dealer to trade it in at.
1. Apply for CLOC with NFCU, I would not request the full $15k as many here suggest doing when I used to submit apps for people I would see people that requested the full amount get flat out denied, then I would submit it for a lesser amount and they would get approved or countered so in your situation thats probably the way to go. I would request 1.5x-2x your monthly before tax income or less than $5k whichever is less.
2. If approved for the CLOC then it sounds like you would have enough funds at the dealer, make sure you speak to the dealership manager and get the credit and the billable hours in writing!
3. Also both of your cards have BT promos right now, sounds like DCU you have 0% but NFCU is doing 2.99% for all members including existing so pay each card off with the other essentially. ie steal from paul to pay peter.... and use the CLOC to pay the rest.
Alternate step 3 if CLOC with Navy not approved, check with Penfed or Alliant about credit card or LOC.
4. As others have said, I would also highly recommend shopping for an independent shop, it may offend some but I call them stealerships for a reason! Not to say there are not reputable dealers out there just CYA especially when its your money.
