Good news and bad news

Car motor died on us last night returning home from Taubaté, while we were on the Dutra interstate highway, in front of GM. I managed to get us off the highway, and in spite of more sputters and stops and power loss, managed to drive through town and get us home.

First stop this morning, mechanic. His e-diagnosis: butterfly thingy that controls or signals fuel volume. Usually, it quits outright. We were given the blessing of being able to get the car home last night and get it as far as the shop this morning. Mechanic says it's easy to change and can probably have it back to us by noon.

Bad news, it's an expensive part. R$1200 or about US$543 at today's rate. Plus labor.