Automotive

[Fanfaron]

Just yesterday I had an oil change but they recommended numerous other repairs were necessary--including a NEW RADIATOR (cracked and leaking) and a couple of belts. My car is 10 years old with approx. 85,000 mi. on it. The grand total for repairs was about $1,300 (including a new set of tires). Being the "skeptic" that I am (and total idiot regarding car stuff), where should I go to get a SECOND OPINION?  Can a radiator be patched? Also, where is the best place to take my car--other than the dealership which has always been the highest with their estimates. This is a lot of money for me since I am now on Social Security and I'm not sure it's a smart thing to put expensive repairs into a 10-year-old car. HELP!

[Ixliam]

Patching a radiator isn't a good idea, and nowadays alot of them are plastic. Most radiators run about $100-150, and putting one in isn't that difficult. Some parts, especially rubber ones, just wear out over time (rather than milage), and need to be replaced. Check prices at local autoparts places for the cost of a new radiator, then get a few estimates on what it would run to change out the belts and radiator at an independant shop or a AAA approved shop. Dealerships usually are going to be your highest option for any type of repair work. If you have some basic tools you could probably do it yourself, least then the labor is free.