Last year the farther I drove the less likely my 11 year old car would get there

Problems solved, I think.
3, yes three, alternators (this last one seems to be "holding").
2 new batteries, the last one seems to be holding, too.
But didn't start well lately...especially when cold.
Went to one of those Quick Lube places for an oil change.
Are you sitting down?
Their staff gathered around, laughing and pointing under the hood.
My invoice said "frequently check air filter area for mouse nest".

Oh well, soon British Columbians won't be able to afford filling up a car...carbon tax over the next 1.5 years will add more than 10 cents to a litre of gas (approx 40 cents a gallon).
Gas prices last night were $1.15 / litre.
Barb