Saturday, June 7

This Sign, is for YOU!

I laughed out loud when I saw this sign posted on a taxi. I had just had a conversation with a friend about cars in Costa Rica being like tin cans and how the taxi's get real pissed when you slam the door. I made that mistake, too, but quickly learned.

Speaking of taxis, that seems to be my mode of transport lately since my car is back in the shop. The mechanic said I had "big problem$" which translates to me, no car for a long time and a big bill when I do retrieve it. This has been going on since February so I'm getting used to the drill of giving up my car. It was good while it lasted. My car has never let me down, until now. Maybe it's time to consider a trade but then I'd rather go to the dentist and have my teeth pulled. It's not easy buying a car in Costa Rica and it is very expensive!! Wish me luck!!

Postscript: The car doctor (Don Car Doctor) just called and my car "esta lista"!! AND, it's only 10,000 colones (that's about $20). I am THRILLED. Just goes to show you, we worry about things totally out of our control. I WILL be at the airport to pick you up Cindy!! This was a good lesson in not sweating the small stuff! TAXI!

Post postscript: The "check engine" light came on as I was returning home. The mechanic says it's nothing to worry about, his wife drove for three years with their light on... Back to square one.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Actually, a lot of these check engine lights are about sensors that have malfunctioned. My Ford Ranger pickup has had the warning light lit for 4 years. I guess I would get it fixed if I was going to sell the truck. I think these are a 250 dollar repair up here in Fl.

Good luck
Tom

Tica Macha said...

I had a Ford Ranger when I was working and just loved it.
The mechanic said EXACTLY that and not to worry. To be on the safe side, I'm getting a van and driver to take me to the airport. The road on that mountain doesn't allow for screw-ups and there is NO WHERE to pull over on the side.

My question is if the check engine light is always on, how do you know when it's really time to check the engine?? Guess I'd better make checking the engine fluids routine instead of just getting gas (which by the way is over $5/gal here already).
Thanks for your comment.

Costa Rica Baby! said...

Love that sign. And now I've learned something new.

Anonymous said...

Don't know what kind of car but...CHeck engine light can be from many items. Sometimes it is as simple as a mechanic who is not familar with reseting it. Try leaving battery unhooked for 3 or so hours to reset car, the positive terminal. Then hookup and drive around a bit. (if comes back on right away prob. an o2 sensor issue) or in some cars turn wheel to right then left all the way the centre wheels (if not extra brake check light), but can't hurt in any event. If you have a manual it might have a rest mentioned? One could also try to find a taller with an odb meter, but hard in CR. Hope this helps a bit.

Anonymous said...

Oops, that is OBD meter (on board diagnostics) about a $50 tool, price unknown in CR.

Tica Macha said...

WOW, that is great, I'll try your suggestions. The mechanic has this computerized thing he connected and he thinks the gasoline (super only) keeps tripping it. It worked when I left his shop, I stopped to get gas and the light came back on. I do think the disconnect battery trick might work.
THANK YOU WHOLE HEARTEDLY!!