Ford Repair: 2005 Ford Freestar, ford freestar, freestar

Question
I have a 2005 Ford Freestar. 1 week ago it started stuttering and hesitating. I
normally do not put much gas into it due to high prices. It started
backfiring..then was fine. It did this off and on throughout the week, today it
ran perfectly. Engine light came on a week ago, but then went back off.
Tonight driving on the highway it started sputtering and hesitating and
backfiring. Check engine light came on and started blinking. I dropped it off
at a mechanic for them to look at tomorrow. Does this sound like a really
expensive issue? I have 4 kids and that is my only transportation..and I'm low
on funds and really worried  

Answer
Backfiring is never a good thing. For future reference, when a check engine light comes on, have the codes read at you're local parts store for free. Sounds to me like the intake gasket has blown. Shouldn't be too bad, most of the price will be labor. I am thinking around $250-$400 depending on you're area. That's if the intake gasket is the problem. It's really hard to say based on the information you have given.