Double Fail.

Normally, having a car fail both the emissions and safety inspections would not make me happy.  But when you buy a 35 year old car, even if it seems to be in perfect condition, there are things that can stop it from passing either.  Expensive things like catalytic converters, brakes, electrical shorts. 

So when the mechanic told me that the only thing that did not pass safety was the bungee cord holding in the battery, I was a little relieved.  A quick, cheap fix.

And then he showed me the emissions printout.  Everything was perfect at running speed, but the fuel was a little rich when the car was idling.  Just adjust the mixture a little leaner, that’s what he said.  Not much, it just barely failed.  Another cheap, quick fix.

Bummer.  My worst week ever continues.