Too many thoughts buzzing in my brain.

[bouncyjenn]

Where do I start.......I'm really really really tired of living where I am. I've been here 8 years and I'm bored. When the building was sold last year I was kind of hopeful that the new management would be better. I have to admit that there have been some improvements that were good. I now have storm windows and a new door. Despite storm windows my

Comments

[cameracarl]

Move. The car can wait.

The critical part was the belt, and you've already taken care of that.

I suspect if the leak was really serious you'd know, because you'd either always have a puddle of coolant under the car, or you'd see a ton of white exhaust.

You don't need a new thermostat unless the old one isn't working. If you're doing the oil regularly, and the car seems to be running well, then I doubt you need plugs either.

For a little peace of mind, go to any auto parts store and get a gallon of coolant. Check the level every week or two and top up if necessary (it's easy - just don't ever open the cap unless the engine is cool!). I'll bet it's a small leak and you'll rarely add much.

Then go get a second opinion on the repair, and budget for it. A leak will wait.

[bouncyjenn]

I knew something was starting to go amuck with the coolant because sometime in either October or November the add coolant light came on so I topped it off. My last day of work before x-mas break which was the 23rd, coolant light came on so I topped off. When I had my car at Midas on Monday they informed me that it was low again. A coworker also advised me to keep coolant on hand and top off every week in the meantime until I can get it fixed. Midas quoted me at $1,000 for the repair. Homestead auto quoted me for the same repairs at $600. When I asked about the thermostat, and plugs, he asked me how many miles are on the car. I'm at 97,000. He said plugs need to be changed around 100,000, and he mentioned as long as everything is taken apart already that the thermostat should be changed. The person who recommended Homestead auto to me also said that if you pay cash that he'll take down the price a little bit. There's also a guy that I work with who has a brother that's a mechanic and he's getting a quote for me as well.

[cameracarl]

OK, so you clearly have a leak that needs to be fixed. And a thermostat is generally a pretty cheap part.

However, it's still just a leak. It's not some critical part that could fail at any second leaving you stranded or out of control. Just keep on top of it like you already are and you'll be fine until you can get it done. It's not an immediate danger, so it shouldn't prevent you from moving.

[ivannamaningarb]

MOVE. You've been in a rut and this is your opportunity for some change. For only $35 more sounds like its a good deal. Sidewalks and streetlamps lead to opportunities to meet new people!

A thought for the car....contact a local community college. Most have a mechanics type course and I'd bet you could get a REALLY good deal with such a simple repair.

Good luck and keep us updated!! XOXOXOX

[bouncyjenn]

If I can get into this place I'd be a couple blocks away from my favorite eateries in Port. I'd also be a couple blocks away from any festival that takes place in Port. I'd be up the block and down some stairs from the friend who has the psychic fairs in her back yard. (In Port they have randomly placed flights of stairs to walk up some of the steeper hills....I can think of 3 places that they have those off the top of my head.)

I never thought of that option! I may have to look into that tomorrow....wait....it IS tomorrow.....later. I will definitely keep you updated. xoxoxox