So sorry, I hate car trouble...you never know how much or how long! Sending you a hug!!

That shit sucks! Hopefully your situation turns out better than my car troubles did.

My (100% paid for) car broke down this winter. Awesome. We know several former mechanics and mechanically inclined people (including FDH)and no one could make heads or tails of it. After dealing with grubbing rides everywhere for a month, I had it towed to a shop. They had no idea what could be wrong. I had it towed to another shop. It took them almost a month to figure it out and get the part needed to fix it. I FINALLY got it back, after months out of commission and close to 2 grand out of pocket.

I was thrilled. I loved my car.

4 days later I got rear ended by some schmo who took off before the cops got there. Car was totaled,it took another few weeks to get my settlement from my insurance company, and then I had to car shop (which I fucking HATE).

Now I have a pretty great car, but I also have a car payment again (boo!) and higher insurance because of the jerk wad who hit me and ran (double boo!)

I hope things are easier on you!