Mitsubishi Repair: PLEASE HELP MEE, scranton area, gas filler

Question
hello i have a 2001 eclipse 6cyl. i am on a fixed income and i am also trying to figure out how i can afford to fix whatever is wrong with my car the cheapest way and the cheapest place in sranton PA. Please be patient because i have few questions id like you to touch on with your advice. The check engine light h been on since i got the car,it seems to be running fine though,do you know why this is? also im not sure what it parts actual name is but its the piece the funnels the gas into the gas tank,its leaking. What needs to be done about this? Does the entire fuel tank need to be replaced? And my last concern is hat my right head light wont work and i was told that i need to get new wires from a friend,is that true and if not what do u think i should do? please help me get the cheapest shop in scranton and the cheapest way to do it? should i order the parts online and take them to a auto shop? Is that cheaper?

Answer
Kim,
I'm not familiar with the Scranton area, so I won't be able to recommend any shops for you.  But a check engine light is easy and cheap to test.  As a matter of fact, if you have an AutoZone in your area, they will check your check engine light for free.  It's very possible that the leak in your gas tank fill tube is the cause for your check engine light.  If the pressure in your fuel tank is not as expected, then your car's computer will illuminate the light.  You can also check with the folks at the AutoZone if the gas filler tube can be replaced without replacing the entire tank.  On many cars, these two pieces are separate and the tube is cheap to replace.  Also, AutoZone can see if your headlight truly does have a wiring issue or if you just need a new light.

As for your cheapest option, that's not easy to predict.  Some mechanics will give you good deals on parts, but will not accept you buying the parts and asking them to install.  They also most likely will not guarantee their work if you do not buy the parts through them.  And if you did buy and find a very cheap alternative with non-recommended parts and inexperienced labor, you may end up making a problem worse and having to take your car to another mechanic to fix it again.  So call around to different mechanics in your area.  Most will offer free estimates, and you can shop around for the best deal, like any other purchase or service.
Good luck!