Well it's time to let go!
Car failed its warrant, and is currently unregistered.
WOF issues:
Front left fog lamp needs to be replaced
Excessive play front right tie rod end
and the biggest punch to the gut...
Damage to the underside of the chassis that will require a panel beater to inspect/repair. I have absolutely no idea how this happened as I haven't been driving the car like a madman, and definitely haven't been involved in any crashes etc. Some people have said that the mechanic was probably just being a bit hard, but I'd rather know about potential problems as opposed to not knowing.
I didn't bother getting a quote from a panel beater, because the repair bill was already getting to the $500.00 mark, and that was just for the other WOF issues (it's hard when you don't have mates that are mechanically minded...)
There were a couple of other issues identified by the mechanic, something to do with solenoids or vacuum switches or something (clearly cars aren't my forté!) and that part was quoted at $324.00 or so.
I decided it was better to just use the money for a deposit on another car instead.
ANYWAY - there is now a car up for grabs. I'm looking at $2000, but happy to consider offers.
I'm moving house this weekend, but I'll take some photos if there's enough interest here.