[MunG35]

Originally Posted by MagicRat

Often, collision damage varies from one car to the next, so it's difficult to advise you on this specific case.
You can reduce the risk by taking it to a really good body shop, one that has the tools and equipment to straighten and repair unit body cars.

A good shop can measure the car at certain critical points to see exactly where the crash has distorted the structure. Often, the structure can be pulled into alignment, essentially by reversing the forces of the crash.

However, cars are structurally complex and its difficult or impossible to fully correct for all distorsions. Furthermore, straightened metal is permanently fatigued and 'work hardened' which may (but not always) produce future problems. It all depends on the severity of the initial impact.

IMO take the car to three body shops which have the equipment and expertise to do this kind of work. Call your insurance company and ask them which shops they recommend. Get an estimate for each and have a serious discussion with them on the cost of repair, the severeity and the expected results of any repair.
Any decent body shop is familiar with the financial implications of crash damage and should be able to give you an idea of the car's market value, as-is, so you know how much $$$ to offer.

Also, if you have any doubts, do not buy the car...... it's not worth the hassle unless you are sure of what you are getting into.

The laser inspections alone are $150-180 per shop... that's pretty steep to do 3 times...