Checklist after Rear End Crash Repairs

[Tleahcim]

Hi all,

I have a 2014 Limited 4WD and was rear ended while I was stopped at a red light a couple of weeks ago and wanted to get some opinions on what things to check on after the repairs are completed. According to the other driver's insurance, the damage was only cosmetic, but I don't want drive away not having checked something only to discover that was damaged in the crash and have insurance deny coverage on those repairs. I didn't check to see if there was any fluid leaking from my 4Runner at the scene and know that's a big mistake on my part. Here are some photos of what the damage looks like on both vehicles:

Is there any way to check if there's anything wrong with the X-REAS or the 4WD system before leaving the dealership? Or, is that something that I should ask the dealership that's doing the repairs to look at? Any suggestions on other things to look at would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Mike

 

[T4R2014]

It does look cosmetic for the most part. I doubt anything drivetrain is damaged. I mean, they still build these things tough right?

 

[e60ral]

check the exhaust

take it to the dealership for an inspection if you are concerned

 

[laurel_mae]

Damages do appear to be cosmetic. The bumper does appear to have taken quiet a hit, and with how low the car is in comparison, there is definitely a chance of rear body panel & floor damage.

Things id look for: (i work in an auto body shop as a damage estimator)
Even gaps & spacing where bumper mounts onto the body & quarter panel
Even gaps & spacing around the lift gate & tail lamps
Weather striping around body of vehicle put on clean (if rear body & floor damage this will be removed) and even
Check underside of vehicle (around spare tire) for repairs, undercoating, burn damage...basically anything that looks like it doesn't belong or out of the ordinary.

The repair facility should already go over the damages with you, but if need be have them physically should you as much as they can on the vehicle, too.

 

[Hadelson]

My experience:

Write a list and go over it with the adjuster. Runners are very tough. The frame sits directly behind the rear bumper cover. Look at the other car as reference to how hard the hit your vehicle took. I would have them check the following

1. Frame cross members signs of damage or mis-alignment.
2. Hitch for alignment as well as where it attached to frame for damage
3. Check inside the runner for any signs of the rear compartment buckled.
4. Have the check the material behind the bumper cover. Once this is compressed, loses ability to absorb other impacts.
5. Check rear lift door for alignment and seal.
6. Check window seals
7. Request OEM parts for repairs for fit and better chance of paint match.
8. Check the exhaust all the way back to manifolds for stress cracks-damage.

Recent experience. Honda Accord hit me while waiting at light. Initially stopped and then person thought light changed green and drove square in back bumper. Minor crease to bumper cover, access molding damaged and hitch cover destroyed. You could barely notice damage to the Runner---the Honda was a foot shorter and required towing.
Initial estimate was $300. Once removed cover, found it required replacement replacing. Cost jumped to just over $1000.

Good luck