CrowTRobo: Car is leaking coolant AGAIN. A year ago I paid $800 to replace the intake manifold because it was leaking coolant. Apparently that is a common problem with Buick 3.1L V6 engines starting in '95 (the year of my car - how lucky!). Now its leaking again. Auto shop said it is either leaking from the timing chain cover or head gasket, but would need to disassemble part of the engine to confirm. If it was timing chain - $750, head gasket - $1300. Of course I can't afford it and don't have any money on credit cards to charge. People keep saying I should buy a newer car, but if I can't afford to get this fixed, I sure as hell can't afford a whole new car.
What kills me is the car, despite being old, is in great cosmetic shape and the engine only has 82K miles. I actually can walk to work but I will need to drive on other occasions, like shopping. I will just keep refilling the reserve/radiator (Its not a constant leak, it only leaks when the car is running). I wish the coolant temp gauge worked so I could tell if the engine is getting too hot. I hate cars, every single one of them is a money pit, regardless of age.
Yeah, I'm thinking about just using a bicycle for the rest of my life. Sure, people will laugh at me and think I'm a loser when they see an adult man riding a bicycle but why should I care what others think. I will save a lot of $$$. Maybe you can get a bicycle and use that instead of your car unless you have to go somewhere really far or go on a date with a girl(in those situations, best to use your car)?