Hey, we all do stupid sh*t from time to time. It happens. $1000 sounds about right. See if they would be willing to work w/ you on the price if you want them to paint the whole car. Some shops may cut you a break this way.
Personally I would get the damage repaired and have it painted. Like you said, new car. Being rust free and only 2 payments from being yours I wouldn't give up just yet. Cheaper than buying another ride and starting over on the payments.
And the code is most likely due to a bad coolant temp sensor. Located in the LIM near the thermostat neck. I'd change that soon as you are loosing fuel mileage if it's reading cold IIRC.
Just my .02
