After getting a new ignition coil last week, my '71 VW Beetle started alright over the weekend. Yesterday afternoon, it refused to start again.
This unfortunate event happened in a gas station. You'd think it might be an OK place for this, but no. I tried to push it onto the street while my 12 year old aimed the car, but I only got a couple of car lengths. After 15 minutes or so, the proprietor came out to ask if I needed help to get the car to the street. He helped push it out of the gas station, but then turned, talking to himself as if angry, and threw his hands to his side, as if throwing water off his hands. The car was in the middle of the side street.
I won't be buying gas at the place on Arden Drive and De La Vina Streets again. I've seen these signs on top of the gas pumps at this station that make me wonder about these people, too. The sign simply says, "Greed is Good". It's either a sign from the California lottery or the major gas company.
So my car is getting towed back to the shop. It still needs carburetor work and another look at the ignition coil. The car doesn't start when it's been driven for a while. If it's cold, it starts alright. Go figure...
There is also an oil leak and the two front brakes are frozen and need work. At this point, I'm thinking of selling the car and maybe trying to buy something more reliable. Truthfully, I'm about ready to just do without a car. I love to drive but it's such a pain in the butt! Gas, insurance, registration, parking, and breaking down. It is getting to be more of a hassle than it's worth to me.
I do need to worry about getting my 12 year old 5 miles away to the alternative school he attends. When he begins high school in a couple of years, he can walk the few blocks. I'm just really discouraged with cars.
What's worse is the fact that I have to get the money for repairs from my family, ex-husband, or his family. I'm 54, disabled from work, earning only SSI and family support. I can pay the rent and pay the utilities for cable TV, phone, and internet (can't do without those.) Then there's food for 2 teenagers and a cat. And a bit for me. I see why people end up eating dog food or cat food.
What would you do? Sell the car and do without? Trade for an automatic?
I'm not sure what I'll do.
