Auto Parts: suggested price to junk my 2003 mitisubishi galant:, 2003 mitsubishi gallant, kelly blue book

Question
I purchased a 2003 Mitsubishi Gallant Sept 2007. It has 66,700 miles on it currently. It has stopped running. The oil light came on. I had the oil changed prior to the light coming on. One day after light came on, I started the car, it shook and turned off. It won't turn over. Prior to the oil light coming on, I replaced the battery and the 4 tires. I really can't afford to have the car repaired. What do you suggest the junked price should be? I know someone who owns a junk yard, he told me to tell him the price I wanted for the car? I have no idea. Can you assist?

Answer
    This is a tough spot to be in.  Firstly, you don't know what is wrong with the car.  If the engine can be easily repaired, then the car is worth whatever the Kelly blue book says it is, less the cost of repairs.  If the engine is trashed, then the car is only worth the value of the other parts, mostly the body parts, and that can't be much more than a grand, if that.  You need to find out whether the engine is actually damaged or not.  Did you check the oil?  If the crankcase is full, then something bad has happened.  If it's empty, then they screwed up the oil change and you sue them for the damages and use the money to buy a new car.  You won't be able to protect your investment in the car without spending a little to get the truth out of the situation.