Hey texace-
I know you probably don't want to hear this answer, but that's the way life is. I have to put up with my '91 Honda civic that has become unreliable, because my life situation right now (yours is that you are 17) won't allow for me to buy a new one. So, I decided that the best thing for me was to learn how to fix my car. Still costs money, but now I know that next year or so (or when you turn 18) my life situation will be different then, and I'll be able to get the Toyota highlander I have been eyeing for my wife. Life will change and get better for you, don't fight it though, just go with it.
just my very humble $.02, I hope everything works out for you.