I'm losing quite a bit of oil, maybe 1.5 qts per month to leaks. I'm pretty certain the car isn't burning the oil, 'cause of the puddles of oil on the ground. Car runs fine, but I'm getting tired of the mess. Is this a must do protective maintenance repair, and if so how much will it cost?

Also, my breaks squeak loudly. I took them into the shop and they lubricated something on the front end and that seemed to work. Now they're squeaking in back. What's up?

Love this car!

 

well, regarding oil leaks, it would help if you know under which area si leak.
it could be faulty or warn gasket, I had problem with loosing oil on my both camshaft endings, gasket was worn down..it takes to pull tranny out, and a lot of messy business.
also, your oil pan can be leaking
trannsmission could

..so basically, wash your engine, let it dry and put big piece of paper to see where is loosing oil (before washing, protect electronics)

for squeeking noise..its due to breaking pads..some mixes are too hard, maybe u can invest and buy "racing pads" which are more softer but they last much less.