Dump it. You bought a new car and what you'll get repaired back will be a constant source of headache. BTDT.

The insurance company of the lady that hit me did not offer Diminished Value. But Allstate, my insurance, did. Basically how it works is this: you print out a Kelly Blue Book value of your car pre-accident (put in the year, options, mileage, etc). Then after your car is fixed they told me to go get 3 estimates from dealers, etc of what they feel the car is worth. In my case, my '01 e53 was worth $28K (this is Spring '06) and you use the middle estimate (throw out the high and low) of the new value--which after the accident BMW of Dallas said $22K. So, they cut me a check for $6K.

Thanks for all the good wishes on not being hurt. I am going by the body shop today to see whats happening. I don't think they have started yet. Had to order parts.
As for the diminished value, not sure how that would work for me as I lease. Maybe BMW financial won't be to happy. I just hate the thought of having a brand new repaired car. The shop I use is very good so I am hoping for a positive outcome.
I will try to post updates.

Diminished value or depreciated must be paid by law in some states (like Georgia). I guess it's what they give you for ruining your carfax.

Yeah, forget everything we said about DV. You aren't the 'owner', you haven't suffered any DV loss...

I do not think the lessor will come after YOU for a future DV claim when you turn it in- never heard of it- but you may want to check.

Look at the bright side- imagine how you'd feel if you'd plunked down $65k of your own money... ;)

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Anybody know if the muffler and tailpipe assembly from the 4.8 would be a direct bolt on to the 35d. I thought I might have the body shop do it if its not an issue.

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Not a direct fit, 4.8 2 inlet pipes, 35D only 1.

SR-

Any updates??

Actually I was at the body shop this morning which tells you I don't have it back yet. Hopefully next week. Yesterday the body shop hauled it up to the local dealer to repair damaged wiring. Insurance didn't want the body shop to do it. Harness on right front was damaged. BMW does not sell a complete replacement. They sell a replacement that has to be spliced in. I am told they have to splice 62 wires. I am just as happy dealer is doing as I have no concerns with issues with the body when it's done. Wiring could be another issue and this way I go right to the dealer. As it stands now it is all painted and partially assembled so they can get at the harness. Will come back from the dealer maybe tomorrow. They will finish assembly and then haul back to the dealer for final testing, aiming headlight, alignment ect. Runs now but they said the dash is lit up like a Christmas Tree. Tab to date is north of 18k.

Interesting...

I am sorry to say that with my technical background, 62 splices is a non-starter for me. I'd have them total the car. I could create a case that technically it cannot be made 'whole' with that number of field splices... lack of validation in terms of long term strain relief, potential stress concentration leading to premature failure.. no how, no way.

Are you leasing?

If not, and the fault is NOT YOURS, ask yourself "If I was buying a used car, and found two- one perfect in every way, one with repaired damage and 62 splices to the engine wiring harness, what discount would I expect on the latter?" Diminished value, big time

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