Driver's rear quarter panel rusty about 2 inch circle around wheel well. It is not rusted through yet but has about 4 one inch circles of rust. Under the paint I am sure there is more.
Tailgate on this DX model specifically under the tailgate. About one third to one half has semi crumbly rust. Almost none through to exterior of tailgate.
Remainder of body good with superficial scratching on hood and driver door. No other rust spots.
Dark Grey in color. Generally the vehicle looks good now. Has 153K miles. Just got a tune-up and its mechanically sound daily driver. I've owned it now for seven years. No fluid leaks. Good tires, good brakes, new battery. Undercoated underside suprisingly clean.
Ballpark/Guestimate me a price range to fix rust and full paint. This is in West Virginia/S.E. Ohio.
I had a guy Quote me $3000 and he said the rust will come back in 2 years. I am curious how realistic this is. Could I buy a tailgate and corner panel inexpensively and easily?
I figure the car is not worth more than $2K but I like the car and want to keep it ten more years.