Def hosin' ya on the buyback. Should be around/ < $3k on a 9k total.

Try googling total loss scheme, if I remember correctly that may yield info on how farmers and other ins. companies benefit by totalling cars that can be fixed.

I'm sure your atty. had a cakewalk stompin' them, because they generally don't cover mods unless you specifically notify them and re write the policy and pay a higher premium. That's why , when you have damage or theft to mods they typically won't cover replacement. Usually they cover cost to bring the car to stock specs and make it sellable on a legit, name brand dealer lot.

They make their profit by trying to minimize payouts. Ever see their corporate offices and beautiful lobbies/ artwork/ landscaping?

But, always looking for the gov't to bail them out at the first sign of trouble, and usually get it. Very influential lobbyists.