I've replaced the fuel pump on my Buick several times over the years, but the pump was only like $25 or $30, and I replaced it myself in under an hour. In the truck it lasted 10 years and 150,000 miles, but to replace it cost over $600, and I did not have the tools (or the time) to remove the tank to replace it, so I had to pay to have it done.

In the truck, you don't have to remove the tank. Remove the bed instead. All you need is a strong partner, or if you are not strong, 3 partners. I can lift one side myself. There's two bolts in each corner, just lay under the truck, unbolt it, unplug the lights between the bed and the bumper, and lift it off. That's how I got mine out, though I didn't have a partner so I just lifted one side at a time and put lumber under it.

The dealer wanted to remove the bed, but I made them drop the tank, because it was a 10 year old truck with a camper shell that didn't leak.

I noticed that for the 1979 Chevette I used to own, parts were about 75% as expensive as those for the '97 Ranger. However, I had to replace parts often on the Chevette. On the other hand, it was a very easy car to fix...

its true.

ive replaced many parts on mine, most expensive part was a exhaust valve. whopping $35 bucks lol.

most items are $20 or less.

it is very easy to maintain and fix. just 2 screwdrivers, very basic socket set, and regular hand wrenches and your good for 90% of problems.

And several wobble extensions so you can get to the starter bolts...

And a belt tension gauge for the timing belt...

yea starter bolts can be tricky (mines still good thankfully)

but timing belt i did replace, but just used a ruler lol

I don't mind a car with more expensive parts, as long as I never have to replace any of them.

Parts are pretty cheap for my '88 Escorts and since lots of them are lifetime warranty all it usually costs me to fix it is my time.

lol yea orileys is gonna hate me as i bought thier lifetime brake pads for my chevette. and alot of other brake parts. if youve ever owned one it eats them:rolleyes: