I was in a minor fender bender with my 2001 Grand Prix about a week ago, front right fender and front bumper need replacing. Front right wheel tie rod and mount broke away from the frame due to rust and the minor impact, repairs have been estimated at $1700 and would be covered fully by my insurance.
The problem is because of the pre-existing rust on the underside of the car the tie rod mount can't be welded back on, so they can't and won't do the repairs to the underside of my car because it isn't possible to get it done and have the repair be safe for the future.
The value of the car is about $3500 so it won't be totaled, looks like I am going to get the $1,700 and a undriveable and unfixable car back.
Is there any sense in bringing it to a mom and pop place and getting it fixed as good as it can and just pay for it out of my pocket, or is it just not a safe thing to do?
If the car has to go bye bye, do I sell it for parts, donate it or what?
If I then need to get another car, what do people around here recommend, makes/model, new/used, need it to be under $25K.
Terry