When is it time to throw in the towel?

13k-15k is a high end paint job unless your car is a total rust bucket. I'm sure if you shop around you can find someone who will work w/ ya and do it cheaper. Bodywork can be done in stages, so don't feel like you have to do it all at once. Pick a part of your car to start on and go from there. Good luck and don't give up.