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That, and not having a set of ramps, is what keeps me from changing my own.

there's a place in Alexandria, I think, on SR9 ...

also, one of AFP print's advertisers is Mobile Pit Stop - which comes to your location, does the oil change (or brakes) and takes away the oil... </advertising>

You must have some of the best running vehicles out there.

How long should a GM truck last,,,, in years or miles,,,, if taken care of,, before they start to cost you more up keep than a payment ?

Not to worry, Dawg.  I've done all three of those things, plus changed an alternator and brake pads before.  I was out of town, though, so I wasn't in a position to do it on my own.  I had no tools and, at the time, I couldn't get in touch with anyone who did.  So I was kind of between a rock and a hard place.

AndersonBrent, I didn't see your question because I think we posted at the same time.  My car is an Acura TL.  I don't know what kind of battery, but it has a 72 month warranty, I believe.  I thought $135 was high to install a new battery, but I needed to get it done, but then when they hit me with that labor, I couldn't believe it!

I think that I would call a few local garages and get quotes on this. $135 sounds about right for the total job (I do know that batteries  just went up) Average them out and see what you get. It sounds like you were really gouged on this.

I have places on my car where the clearcoat has disentergrated...

I know that is done for, without the professional help...

Is there anything I can do to stop the spread of the area?

it depends on if you care what it looks like, If you dont care then take it to a jiffywash and spray all the rest of the loose clear off in that area. the go find some of the white 3-m scrub pads and some ajax scouring powder and scrub the area the clear is missing and immediately around it. hand  rinse and wipe it clean and let it dry then mask it off and  take a sray can of clear to it. that will slow it down quite a bit but wont look all that hot.

Wana swing buy and gimme a professionals opinion? hah

Its a 2000 Cavalier.

Paid off...

As long as it runs, I'm fine!