<prompt> Human: So I drive a pretty crappy car. Its a 2004 with over 170k miles and I am getting to the point where lots of things are breaking on it. Currently its in the shop and the mechanic gave me an estimate of 1400. This is shortly after I spent 750 on an alternator already. My question is should I pay to fix it? Should I scrap it and try to get a new one? Lease one? I have about 2000 I can spend probably can get more I just want to do so in the most effective way. I am estranged from my family so I dont really have any adults to ask for advice. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!  <response>: Alternator for your car should be around 120-180 according to Rockauto.com Typically, alternator is held by two or three bolts and an electrical connector to the battery. That said, what is wrong with the car now? Is this the same mechanic that replaced the alternator? Get a second opinion as it could be another 200-300 part job that requires taking off few bolts. Take some time to look up how to do the repairs yourself. With cars 10 years old, it is very easy to do most repairs with help from YouTube videos or model specific discussion boards. If you have friends that are knowledgeable, buy him some pizza and beer to have him help you with the repairs. I own 3 vehicles, 2002 BMW 109K miles, 2004 Toyota 149K miles, and 2005 Honda 206K miles and combined, my repairs bills are typically under 1,000 a year for all three.Lease is going to cost you a lot more than 1400year, especially since you will have to get comprehensive and collision coverage, vs just liability insurance you probably have on your Olds. 