Ozfree,

If you don't mind me asking what did all the new paint work set you back?

Spike,

It set me back about $750 but keep in mind it was severe rust that needed sand blasting and welding in of some new inner fender pieces. I also had the trunk lid painted around the 3rd brake light as it was starting to pimple there too. He also replaced all my lights (front and rear units, I bought them) and did some other minor repair stuff while he had it. I also saw this as my opportunity to get the custom paint job I wanted of the two tone hood/custom grille so I went for it.

The thing about rust is it only gets worse. If I had done the repairs last year it would have ran me about $500 (including hood) but the economy tanked and I had to put the money elsewhere. The car went through another winter and the rust got worse of course.

Looking at your photos it's not major at all. A little sand blasting and you should be good to go. If you're going to keep the car I would say taking care of it sooner will be cheaper and less likely for the rust to return down the road. If you're going to trade it in then I wouldn't bother (though taking care of it might increase your trade in value). I decided to hang on to my 3. I really like not having that car payment, and my 3 isn't all that bad either :)