For a few days or so my car was quietly clicking in the engine, with the noise getting progressively louder today. Constant clicking although it seemed to speed up more as I accelerated. Tonight, on the way home while on the freeway, the clicking sped up like crazy, got super loud, kept thunking (sounded a bit like a towel slapping hard against something) then there was one last THUNK. The engine died and I could smell a bit of gas or oil. I got towed to the dealership for them to see on Monday, etc.

The battery and anything related was ruled out earlier today after getting replaced. And obviously the gas smell rules it out.

So, any ideas on what happened to my car and how utterly fucked I will be financially when the bill comes in?

I'm heading to bed but I appreciate any help and I will respond to any questions when I wake up.