Fix or Scrap? Topic is solved

[FireFox31]

A similar accident happened to me. Local body shops said the rear right frame rail was compromised, meaning that even if it was fixed, it would need a salvage title and an inspection by state police before it could legally be driven again. See page 2 for the frame pics. I really tried to get it fixed but it would have cost too much and the resulting imperfections (doors not closing right) would have been a nag.

Maybe Oregon is more "live free or die" than my New Hampshire, so you could be allowed to fix it and drive it. Do take it to a few body shops for evaluation. Junk yards should have the parts you need. But that rear quarter panel and the frame will be the big challenge.

I strongly recommend buying it from the insurance company to get repair estimates or part it out. For disassembly, do you have lots of time, space for the parts, access to a lift and/or garage, and a trailer to haul the stripped husk to scrap metal? I believe there's a demand for good quality AWD components. Or get another AWD and keep those parts for your own stash. Heck, at 95k miles, the interior is probably amazing and worth keeping. The driver's seat alone is worth a good percentage of the buy back price (to me, anyway).

It's a shame when a good one gets taken from us, but there's value in the parts if you want to make a hobby of dismantling it.

[foggydogg]

If you're going to start a poll, I would lean toward retaining salvage no matter what, and the river rat transport sounds quite pleasant.
Minimal effort, maximum miles of smiles.
I've got a spare tailgate, but...

[BlackBart]

Is the river rat role all off-highway? Then keep it and make it work, hammer the door jamb so it opens and closes.

[erikv11]

Parts car only, a la Chuck's comment. With that damage I wouldn't consider fixing it for a second.

[scot850]

Like I linked, there is that V70XC with a blown motor for sale in Portland OR. Make one from 2.

Neil.

[abscate]

See above for the total win!

[TRNorton]

I’m keeping my beloved Yetrude. I bought her back for $625. I found a replacement tailgate and taillights for $180 which seems really reasonable. Yes it’s black not silver but that will just add to her character.

[454cid]

I’m keeping my beloved Yetrude. I bought her back for $625. I found a replacement tailgate and taillights for $180 which seems really reasonable. Yes it’s black not silver but that will just add to her character.

I understand that. I miss my 99 S70 even though I bought Mercedes to try and take it's place.

[Clemens]

will you get a salvage title or can you still run it on public streets?
I have 2 855 Turbo wagons just because I never wanna be without one again in case something like your incident happens to me.

[TRNorton]

I will get a salvage title and fix her up to be street legal again. The bumper will be the greatest challenge but I hope to retrofit a tube bumper with a hitch -