Do those prices include labor and a mechanic's markup?! If so, you should buy the parts online and DIY. It can seem daunting, but after watching a few videos, buying a wrench set, and asking a friend to keep you company, you can save thousand$$$ on repairs. Recenlty, my son's car stopped cranking. I replaced the battery (~$62 at Walmart) and starter ($50 online instead of $133 at the local auto parts shop). After a few hours spread over two days and some greasy hands, my son and I fixed it. Great memories and a new-found sense of independence!