Okay, this week, this month, this year, my life sucks

[Moonliner]

Originally Posted by Snowflake

I've got to come up with $2500 to $3000 to get everything done (which is preferable, really, get it all done and I'm good for the next year or so). So this is just for the car.

Have you gotten a second, third opinion? Can you (or a friend) do any of the work yourself? I know less about cars than I do about Cosplay (what the hell is that all about anyway....) and even I could change the oil, replace an alternator, etc... Perhaps you can find a mechanic that moonlights.

As for your roommate, friends are good but you need to live too. Perhaps it's time to explore some "options" (<-cue ominous music). If not rent then perhaps barter for other things that take up your time/money.