I have been told that my 1996 Avenger has a bad.

There is a reason mechanics charge more for parts than what they cost from an auto parts store, just like Walmart, Sears, and any store marks up stuff, but in this case the shop got carried away. Look your part up on Rock Auto. Com but realize it's a discount site. You will pay 50 to 100 percent more locally but not anywhere near $1000.00.

For the record, my daily driver is a rusty trusty '88 Grand Caravan. I refuse to buy another new car because of WAY too much inappropriate use of technology. We do not need computers to run power windows, power seats, and dome lights. My van, and your 17-year-old car are infinitely more reliable in many regards than new cars. If I had to stick $1000.00 into repairs to my van I would instantly do that rather than spend that much on two car payments for a different car.