[black69]

If he collected insurance money, he is better off trying to buy it back. If he gets it returned, he may be on the hook to pay back the insurance company. If I was him, I would go back to the insurance company, and let them go after this. All he has to tell them is he wants his car back, and would make up any difference to them if they get it back, less damage.
Insurance companies probably have lawyers they can throw at this without blinking. Especially if they paid him out 10K or 20k, who knows back in 2001. I am sure they would want a shot at getting their money back. He gets his car back and does not pay legal fees to do so.

If he did not have insurance, this is all a waste of time and interest to me. Should have had it insured.