Hey there NC folks. I am in a tough situation and need recommendations for how I can get my 1997 LX450 repaired (after 9 months of waiting) - either by having it towed to a different body shop or ideas for how to help my shop get what it needs. I'll share background below.
1. Suck it up and wait
2. Have it towed to a body shop in the Charlotte, NC area that has experience with FJZ80s or similar LCs
3. Try to locate more of the non-custom parts (like the hood, etc) myself, at the possible risk of having to pay 2-way shipping if they don't fit
Two questions for the forum:
1. Your opinion on whether I should suck it up and wait, or have it towed elsewhere
2. If I take it elsewhere, any recommendations on where in the Charlotte region I could take this vehicle that knows 1997 LX450s / FJZ80s?
Input much appreciated.
- Let me start by saying that this LX450 is in exceptional condition inside and out. It's worth keeping.
- My daughter got into an accident back in April 2023 that damaged the front right of the vehicle. I have attached to this message the full repair estimate, with the full list of parts required.
- The shop has been holding the vehicle since, telling me they are waiting to hear on parts
- While I have a lot of respect for this shop -- they do great work -- they probably aren't plugged into the LC community and are more accustomed the typical newer vehicle insurance repair "standard". They are woefully understaffed and have a huge backlog, so even getting them on the phone or to reply to emails is a challenge.
- From feedback here and from other LC friends, a mix of some custom/aftermarket stuff (hey, if I'm going to replace the bumper, I might as well get a cool replacement) along with suitable salvaged parts is very doable -- I have several parts (bumper, grille, headlights, etc) that I have suggested to the shop -- but no movement.
- I am losing confidence that this shop has the time or capacity to help me locate everything needed, and I really need this car back.
1. Suck it up and wait
2. Have it towed to a body shop in the Charlotte, NC area that has experience with FJZ80s or similar LCs
3. Try to locate more of the non-custom parts (like the hood, etc) myself, at the possible risk of having to pay 2-way shipping if they don't fit
Two questions for the forum:
1. Your opinion on whether I should suck it up and wait, or have it towed elsewhere
2. If I take it elsewhere, any recommendations on where in the Charlotte region I could take this vehicle that knows 1997 LX450s / FJZ80s?
Input much appreciated.