I crashed my MINI and now it's in the shop. They're telling me that it's going to take 2 and a half months before repairs can be done because the Radiator Core Support is on backorder. Anyone have any clue why this would be? My car is still under warranty so I don't think it'd be a good idea to salvage a part from another MINI. Any suggestions or help would be appreciated. thanks!

 

Eeek, what text color!

I would assume that the core supports could get in short supply because of the demand not only of new cars, but crash repairs as well. The core support is quite easily damaged in minor frontend collisions, and unlike those of some cars which are made of metal, the plastic support can't be straightened out and 'reused'. Once it breaks, or even just cracks, it's gotta be replaced.

If you were somehow able to procure an undamaged core support from a salvage car, it would be just as good as a new one. Given that most causes of salvaged cars is frontend crash damage, it's not very likely you'll find one, If you do, go ahead and use it. It's either good or it's not.