Below is a list of the repairs I actually had done (about half of what they found), which came to a total of $3,036.02, after a $780 discount on parts & labor. I'll get the rest done after the holiday bills are paid.

My service advisor was Angie Challenor, who was great to work with. I'd have to say that she was a bit more helpful than previous service advisors I've had at Stevens Creek BMW. And prettier. She also waited patiently until I stopped laughing when she rattled off how messed up my car was and how many thousands of dollars it would take to repair my car (which is driving beautifully now, except for the slight shake caused by the bent rim(s).

Fixing the cracked bushing definitely improved how "flat" the car sits when braking or accelerating. It's funny how I'd forgotten. The other fixes, while necessary, are invisible and unnoticeable. I'm hoping the leaks they plugged put an end to the constant flow of oil I've had to put in the car.

Some may ask if I'm still happy with my car. The answer is yes, but I am looking at buying a second beater car or truck to drive around San Francisco. I'm also looking to see how much I can save by going to a third-party for repairs.

Loaner Car: 2006 BMW Z4
A few notes on the loaner they so gave me:

• The automatic did an admirable job, although the "manual" automatic shifter is still the dumbest feature I can imagine; it's basically like putting a regular automatic in "1" then "2" then "D" except more confusing
• The overall feeling I had was that I was driving a horse-drawn carriage or piloting a torpedo. The engine performed very well, but the small passenger compartment and lack of visibility (compared to my car) were no fun for me (plus, I couldn't smoke of course)
• The top is FAST. Up or down in about 9 seconds flat (compared to 12-15 secs in my 330cic)