Had a 2.0 Hdi from new now with 130k on the lock (52 plate). Had a high speed accident in it "heavy front corner" when it was 6 months old and they fixed it (not my fault btw) and it had everything done including new subframe and sill on the passenger side. 10 years later and the outer sill stated to bubble. My mechanic put it finger through the hole and the entire bottom of the sill has gone in 3 places, one of which is a hand sized hole. In addition the inner sill is rotten in 2 places each about 20cm long, it flexes away from the floor when pushed and there is a 2cm strip where it is rotten and not attached. My mechanic doesn't want to do it as the entire box section is corroded, either on the surface or deeper in. It appears the repair was not rust proofed 10 years ago and has been rotting ever since. He has told me that once its started its hard to stop the tin worm (i remember this from my old BL cars) and that even if he did weld it up and put a new outer sill on he would be concerned as I commute down the M62 every day.
The cars clutch engages right at the top of the pedal, a 1cm push and it slips though it drives fine. It also needs a back box and pads/discs. It scraped through on emissions last year too.... Condition is rather dented and scratched, its been well used as a family car thought everyone is attached to it. The advice given is to call it a day. Local breakers offer £150 for it. Any ideas? I don't want another money pit (my Xantia was one before the camshaft snapped on the motorway and destroyed it) but there is the emotional pull.....
Sensible advice appreciated! He is offering me a Xzara estate HDi for £450 with 12 months MOT and he is honest as the day is long...
