Wow it is post like this that make me want to move into something newer with a warranty, i really don't know what i would do in this situation! I just got a quote for replacing 2 rear shocks for almost 700 dollars with 2 Bilstein shocks. So nearly 20k for an engine replacement doesn't sound so far fetched these days. I think many of us just forget like how our grocery food has doubled in price the last 6 years, so hasn't repairing a vehicle.
It is getting to a point though were i would rather spend the 8k or so a year in monthly payments on something new then spending 20 grand on something old, facts are that 18k is not far from what a 2019 LT Silvy is worth, in working condition of course! The other issues is if you have the dealer do it, the same parts that failed because of the engine fuel management crap, will have the potential to happen again.
Trade-in Value: $21,100
Private Party Sale: $24,000 – $26,000
Retail/Dealership Price: $27,000 – $29,200