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Wrecked! Now what...need advice

729 views 5 replies 4 participants last post by  SCJon 
#1 ·
Hello All,

The weather got me at last - car skidded off the road and I landed up in a field (I was driving about 20 mph below the speed limit but that didn't save me). Luckily, I was not hurt and no other vehicle was involved. But, the 97 328i was hurt, towed it to a local collision repair place and here is their list:

- front bumper torn off and is in tatters, needs replacement (parts cost $ 270)
- radiator was bent with motor fan scraping it (radiator cost in parts $ 140)
- A/C condenser needs replacement (parts cost $ 75)
- A/C fan needs replacement (parts cost $ 125)
- 4 wheel alignment

Total cost including labor and refinish = $ 1320.00

It is currently being checked in more detail to make sure that nothing else was critically damaged. What else could be damaged I wonder? The car rear just swung out, and I spun around and landed in a field after going off the road in a ditch. Nasty business.

I was about to replace the thermostat and had even bought a new one so I thought may be I should do a coolant system overhaul while at it. What else would I need to replace? Based on what I have read so far:

1) Thermostat + Housing
2) Waterpump?
3) Hoses (which ones?)
4) fan clutch? (where does this part go?)

SInce I need an alignment anyway, I was also thinking of getting the rear shocks and springs + stabilizer links replaced (have parts at hand).

All in all I am trying to keep it below $ 2000 including a repaint of the hood for clear coat peel. Does this sound reasonable?

I just did the front sway bar links + bushings and had the bracket mount welded in a week ago, plus two front tires. And one month ago did the starter motor and VCG.

Damned this is making me leak $$sss. Last year had tie rods, RTABs, Clutch, brake rotors + Pads done!

My biggest concern is that I spend this kind of money and then something major breaks down - what other problems areas does the e36 present? Anything I should be looking out for? From what I gather and based on at least 3 bmw/german auto specialists, the engine and such seemed in strong shape. But one gets a bit leery after doling out the $$s.
 
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#4 ·
Thanks a lot. That seller is not too far from where I can pick it up and save on some shipping too. Hope he has one of those M3 style bumpers, that is exactly what I lost. Looked sharp too.

Btw, the body shop told me that I would need more than just the bumper - lots of bumper related parts were missing such as the fog lamp hook up and all those rubber mouldings and things that are behind the bumper. Where could I get these? I am assuming he is referring to these:



But REaloem does not name part # 14. What is it called?

THe brake air ducts etc were all destroyed :dunno:



Most importantly, where could I get all these parts if they don't come with the bumper?
 
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