So I Hit Another Car Options

[brk34]

I rear ended another car and the air bags deployed. No injuries but the car is fairly banged up. I now need to replace all the glass and the airbags. I only want the car to be safely drivable. Cosmetic issues are not so important.


I need to repair or replace some other items. The hood was damaged and also was what I believe is, the upper radiator mount.

How much would purchasing these be. I most likely will replace the hood and the mount my self or have them reshaped if its inexpensive.

The bumper looks fine with no damage to the important underlying structure. It look ugly but functional.

I also need a high beam on the driver's side. The reflector is damaged and I think replacement is the best option. Would it be easy to replace myself.

As for getting the parts (if I decide to replace them) should I attempt to buy from a local individual or look in a junk yard. I'm located on long island New York.

Are there any issues I should look for? There are no fluid leaks, suspension or tire damage.
Pictures

[jcbass7]

I'm located just across the ferry in New London CT. I have most of those parts you need (hood, headlights, airbags and sensors etc) If you want to fix it yourself, lemme know and we can work something out. If the suspension and the radiator supports/ frame structure upfront are still in good condition, than it shouldn't be tough to fix at all.

PM me if you want to talk more about it.

[Bigblock]

Good to know you're ok!! Hope you can save her!!

[mkernz22]

Same thing happened to me my man! Hope you're alright though!
It's an easy fix, not nearly as bad as mine, check out my thread!

[czwalga]

I'll sell you the airbags if you want to replace them.

[brk34]

Thanks I'll keep all your tips in mind. Is it safe to use junk yard airbags and associated parts or do I need new ones?

[mkernz22]

junkyards usually rip them out right off the bat, well at least all the ones I went to they were missing.
They'll probably charge more for them as for what you would pay on heree

[brk34]

Ok I'll keep the idea of buying them from a member in mind. I plan on taking off the front bumper tomorrow and looking at the damage.

[cjh4l22]

i have the 2 upper supports if you need them. one for the hood and one for the radiator. both brand new

[brk34]

I'll keep that in mind.
Does anyone know if airbags from any year can be used? Do I need to make sure the parts are from an obd II car?

[brk34]

Update. I got the bumper off and look like I need the crash bar as well.

[njccmd2002]

get the airbags from a reputable member here. Junkyard, will they work the next time? god forbid, im not wishing you any bad luck, but do you want to risk it?

as for the other parts, everybodys got headlights to sell here, and bumpers and hoods, find someone close to you, or those are things junkyards are for.

[bccentaur3]

I have all the parts needed for your car. Have both air bags and crash bar and pre-face bumper. Hood too. They are all removed from the car and ready for shipping if needed.

[brk34]

I managed to remove the bumper and such. I have a question though how do I remove the highlighted bolts? The factory manual states that these bolts need to be removed in-order to remove the airbag sensors. When I attempt to rotate the bolt the stud also turns.

[Spider77]

Not that Ive had to remove anything from around there, but usually if you try to loosen a nut, and the shaft rotates, that means its a bolt/nut combo. My guess, you might be able to get something up in there to hold the head of the bolt (offset box end wrench), or remove the condenser?

[brk34]

I forgot to mention this but the other side is a flat metal disk (going by feel). I attempted to grab the edge using long nose plies without success. Though grabbing it might be possible if the bar wasn't so distorted. I think removing the condenser is out of my skill level. I'm working in a driveway.

[richee3]

I'm personally a fan of a grinder and new nuts and bolts. Since that isn't a viable option, maybe try a pair of vice grips to clamp the back of the bolt while you try to loosen the nut.

[SleekCelica]

I'm with Richee on this one- that would cost you very little vs time spent trying to get them out without doing that.

[brk34]

I didn't want to drag power tools outside in the winter but I will probably be forced to use a dermal or some such.

[mkernz22]

oh...
those nuts...
yeahh, they just freely spin if you try to loosen them...
there's no bolt, it circular shaped piece of metal on the back and I couldn't get them off after my accident either...

I'll stop doing the dot dot dot's, but there is no need to get those off unless you are taking your a/c condenser out.
Is yours broken?

And to be honest, I couldn't get it out of either of the cars I have had.
Boots+Kicking=Job Done.

I just don't have AC anymore lol

This post has been edited by mkernz22: Nov 30, 2010 - 11:18 PM