Gut Punch On The Car

I was able to get my car to the mechanic today to see about the coolant leak. Given that many or all of the hoses and such are original and quite old, I had hoped it was a hose or clamp issue.

Sadly, the mechanic says it is the timing belt cover and/or the head gasket. So, best case would be $1k+ and worst case probably $3k+ since there were some other things that he saw unrelated to the leak. Such as suspension and even some frame issues that will become ISSUES sooner rather than later. His STRONG recommendation was not to throw good money after bad, but to get a new vehicle.

Unless I win the lottery this coming weekend (note to self, buy a ticket), I’m not in the best shape to do so. Bank loan is not really in the cards as while I’ve been making progress I’m not near where I need/want to be to get such. Buying from a dealer is not in the cards given that the used car market is insane right now and the new car market even worse.

So, the best bet is to find a used car that is in good shape and at a good price from an individual. My cigar buddies and others are going to be keeping an eye out, but it’s not like I have stacks of money lying around. Heck, I don’t even have a good pile of change. That said, I need a reliable car or truck to get to physical therapy, shopping, and Church.

So, I’m going to be doing some prayer and reminding myself to turn things over to the Lord. Thoughts and suggestions welcome, and I’m going to see what I might can do in terms of monthly payments if a reasonable loan can be found for a vehicle at a reasonable price.

If anyone knows of a good used vehicle in the Indianapolis area, please do let me know.

I would also note that I really can’t complain about my car. I’ve more than gotten my money’s worth out of it given what I paid for it. It has also lasted many years longer than either the person I bought it from or I expected. It has been a good vehicle despite some of the repairs it has needed. I just had hoped (and needed) for it to last another year while I got back closer to being on my feet. I have to remind myself to have faith, and to trust that this will turn out for the best.

For now, I think I can keep it limping along to get me to PT. Hoping bus, shank’s mare, and occasional rides from the landlord will let me do everything else.

Again, thoughts and prayers along with good suggestions most welcome.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.