2002 BMW 530
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My car was damaged after being hit from the rear. There is a lot of damage and I have not yet received the estimate from the repair shop. How is it determined whether they will repair damages or declare a total loss?

If damages meet or exceed the wholesale value they total.

I agree with Docfixit. BMW usually goes with that and/or 50% of the retail value, depending on the vehicle. The E60 cars seem to be in a different realm, I have seen then get totaled for some fairly minor mishaps. I get that it has to do with the construction techniques. There is a lot of aluminum in these cars and it does not take well to being abused.