Originally posted by quicsvr
I'd be willing to bet, speaking from the same exact experience, that the total costs will come in higher than the estimate. I know mine did. Glad to hear it is not a total loss. That being said, I'd get any parts back that aren't too damaged; they will still fetch a good price. It's damn near impossible to find parts, and the trouble in doing so might not be worth whatever money you'd pocket in the deal. I'd go with someplace that can guarantee the work, and will fix any small things they are bound to mess up. Just my opinion. And 2 weeks aint bad, mine was gone a month.
Its hard to tell whats damaged by going over the car from the outside. Once you start removing parts is where you find a lot more stuff broken that needs to be replaced. ALl the body shop does is issue a "supliment" to the insurance company, and they pay the additional costs.