99 C230-Needs new transmission--I need some advice

[pdhaynes]

I have a beautifully maintained 1999 C230K, which I bought new. It has been serviced only by the dealers. One of the mechanics at our last dealer wanted to buy it. It has 150,000 miles and I was looking forward to my first mileage grill badge. But, yesterday the car broke down. And today, the Mercedes dealer called and said it needs a new transmission. The cost of $6,580 includes parts and labor. So, I'm pretty heart-broken about my baby.
Questions:
- 1) How much lower can I get the cost working with a non-dealer?
- 2) The value of the car is around $6,000--should I sell the car for parts/scrap or try to fix it?
- 3) If I cannot afford to fix it, how do I sell the car to get the most money out of it?

Thank you so much!
v/r, Pete