Control Arm Bushing

I have a '97 Aspire I am determined to drive until it drops! I have no mechanical ability and have been spending mucho $$$$$$ keeping this favorite car of mine "alive". Today, my mechanic told me the control arm bushing is cracked. He (they) wanted over $1,000 to replace/fix the problem. Since the car isn't even worth $1,000, I declined. What I don't know is what the future holds with this problem and does anyone think I can find the repair less expensive at an independent garage. I have had it serviced at a Ford dealership for a variety of reasons. They have done a wonderful job but it has been expensive and I've decided "no more mega-repair-bills"! What if I just let it remain cracked???? Any danger in driving it that way? What are the symptoms of it getting worse? Thanks!

I'm taking care of my kid's Aspire until it drops like you. As long as you don't experience any handling problems or you find yourself having to get wheel alignments more often; drive it till it drops is my opinion. :)