So I managed to overheat my Maxima and blew the head gasket today.
Took it in, and they want ~$2000 to fix it, including fixing the cooling problem that caused this in the first place.

I only paid $3500 for the car to start with. What do you guys think? It is pretty much worthless as-is. I could buy another Max for not much more than what the repair bill is. It seems like it would be cheaper to just stick a new engine in there, but I guess that is not the case. Has anyone had this type of work done? What did it cost. Thanks!

 

Cheapest way would be to find a good used engine and put that in.

 

Jeff is a wise man, do what he says . Also replace all components that should be replaced during a timing belt change. Be sure to get new front/rear oil seals and camshaft oil seals, water pump, Thermostat, timing belt + tensioner and you should be ready to go.
http://www.courtesyparts.com/Merchan..._oem_60k-vg30e

 

Thanks for the input. I have found a place that will install a low-milage engine for $1600. They replace everything Nismo87SE said should be replaced. I also get a 1 year /12k mi warranty. I guess in Japan they junk cars after they have ony 30k - 40k mi on them, then they ship the parts over here.