Need some advice buying a used car

Jan. 3, 2006 | Alouette

[Alouette]

FReepers, as you may probably know, I was involved in a car crash that resulted in the demise of my beloved companion, a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix SE.

Sadly, the insurance adjustor has determined that my most dearly loved mode of transportation cannot be repaired at a cost of less than its market value, wherefore they are offering a buyout so that I can purchase another vehicle. Insurance will not compensate unless they receive my TITLE, so seeking 2nd opinions from independent body shops is not an option.

Anyway, before entering the dangerous jungle of the used car market with all its traps and pitfalls, I am seeking the advice and recommendations of FReepers on where and how to find a replacement for my darling.

[Dawgreg]

Aw Shucks! Perhaps soon. *~*

[Alouette]

I am looking at a nice selection of vehicles, same make and model, same mileage, same options or better, maybe a year or two younger.

I remember the day I bought that car. I went to the mall and I had my nails painted the same color! I even wrote to GM suggesting that they make nail polish and lipstick in that same metallic red. {sigh}

I can understand how people feel grief when a beloved dog or cat dies, but I really did love my car! It was trusty, it was faithful, it got me where I needed to go and gave me a nice comfy ride.

[Kenny Bunk]

Well, I have to say that you are correct, speaking in the retail-for-parts, civilian world. (And probably in regard to the age of my data bank for Pontiacs!)

However, I do assure you a good clip can be had for that vehicle for well under $1500. So, what will happen to Alouette's car is that it will be sold as salvage for $500, The rebuilder will buy recycled parts, 'cut to size, beat to fit, and paint to match,' and put it on the lot. All told, take him a week. He'll try to make $3,000 more than his cash investment, but take anything close. Done every day in your town. If he knows his business, it will be a good-looking serviceable vehicle.

In regard to the car/title controversy. Yes, it does vary from state to state. But, you are definitely "allowed" to negotiate the damage as distinct fom the vehicle. There is no reason for an insurance company to "buy" your wrecked car, except their convenience and financial model. OTOH, they're allowed to try and to mitigate their underwriting loss by "buying" and then selling that car.

I have personally asked for the money AND the car on behalf of many friends, and myself; and more often than not, made that deal. If Alouette really, really wants to keep that car, no reason not to try. OTOH, with that amount of money in her purse, she has many options.

But Rhiannon, I do realize that my advice is some times not entirely appropriate for folks like Alouette who are not hardened motorheads, or who don't care to learn the ropes in this part of the automotive jungle. So, somewhere between epow and myself, lies an answer for her.

[Rhiannon]

Most shops would rather put on a used front than a side. Much more difficult. Usually at least in Maryland I have seen these cars sold as parts.LKQ doors go for $ 600 and taillights for $75-150 and hoods for $150 and h/l another $125 each. So the salvage dealers make more money salvaging the parts, not repairing a car with that type of damage.

As to repairable cars, that is negotiated with the repair shop. First estimates are never final estimates.More damge is usually found. That is why when the repairs hit 75% or 80% the car is considered a total loss.