Thanks Gud and sarameg. I have a tendancy to just sort of leap into big things, and am sort of afraid that I will just somehow end up with a new car without putting much thought into it. In fact, I sort of almost bought one yesterday on-line.

Wow. Someone used "ya'lls" in a business email to me. I credit them half a point against their total demerits since they're writing from Texas, but still.

I would definitely find out what the repair costs are before jumping into a new car. 1997 isn't that old of a car and, properly repaired, it could last for years. My 1994 w/ 130,000 miles car runs great.

Gud is wise in the way of the car. Also, if you plan to run your current car into the ground, be prepared to deal with it quitting on you at the most inconvenient time (like when you've used the money in your savings for something else you need). Your decision will depend on your level of proactiveness.

Finding a reliable and inexpensive used car is a PITA but usually worth it in regards to the payment. I would only consider leasing if my mileage would stay super low (unless you can negotiate a little more mileage in the contract).

How the Da Vinci Code does not work.

As a datapoint, I had a '89 sentra that I got for $2K in '95 or so. I had to replace an axle and it too started gushing oil (seals had to be replaced? I don't quite remember, nor the exact cost) about '98. It ran fine until 2000 when it blew up in part due to a fuckup at a quick lube place. It had over 200K miles when it died.

Also, if you plan to run your current car into the ground, be prepared to deal with it quitting on you at the most inconvenient time (like when you've used the money in your savings for something else you need). Your decision will depend on your level of proactiveness.

That is really my problem is that I have no proactiveness during the school year because I work about 100 hours a week. So now the school year has ended and I am seized with a desire to fix it now. Of course, since I am working less I have no money.

Start researching now, to get an idea of what is out there and what you are looking for. That way if it does up and die at the worst time ever, you've got a plan already sketched out.

I would just add, that I would suggest only buying a used car if buying is teh way you need to go. brand new cars are just not the way to go on a budget.

also? NO BIG SPENDING just cause you have time.

also also? 100/week. that makes me sad. you deserve a better job(s).

NO BIG SPENDING just cause you have time.

This is too funny!

I really actually need to quit the theatre now, but I need the money. And I am only supposed to work about 20 hours a week at the theatre , but the theatre actually averages more like 50, when I count in the weekends, lunch hours, and the period of time when I actually work 20 hours a day for 7 days straight! Of course, I could make the same amount of money working at JC Penney part-time, and it would be a lot less stressful! Also, while I work at the theatre, I can be a person who works as a secretary to support my passion...