To save a Saturn

[jordang328is]

Just wanted to share a cool story with everyone. My little brother's car was hit and ran on a Saturday night. They hit the rear quarter panel/wheel, and seemed to have bounced off the car only to reconnect with the front fender and driver's side mirror. In case you are not familiar with the incredible automobile that is the 1999 Saturn SL1, all of the body panels, save the roof and trunk lid, are made from plastic. This means that in the event of a collision, they either emerge totally unscathed or they completely shatter. In this case it was the latter. My brother immediately assumed the car was a total loss, but with my tools and knowledge, and his trips to Pick N Pull, and my parent's financing, the car was repaired for under $500. Parts replaced: Driver's side quarter panel, rear trailing arm, rear shock/strut assembly, and side mirror. Would have been cheaper but mom didn't want a used shock/strut. The front fender was saved with zipties, as was the rear door. A four wheel alignment later, and he drove from Sacramento to Santa Barbara without a hitch! The best part is, that was the first time he has ever really worked on a car, and although I gave him guidance, I made him turn every nut and bolt himself. As a result, he has realized that cars can not only be worked on by a mere mortal, but that it car be fun as well! We may have just seen another gearhead born, and I was convinced I was alone in my family!