Got rear ended. Would like to rebuild myself. Need help

[emoore924]

When a car takes a hit like that on the trailer hitch, be sure to check the frame rails where the hitch mounts up for damage and check the back doors (not the lift gate) to be sure they still close properly and the gaps are even all around.

The torsional forces that transfer through the hitch, through the mount to the frame can be enough to bend the whole car right in front of the rear wheel well. The way that damage manifests itself is that the rear doors don't close right any more or the door gap is uneven, or you find light sheet metal distortion (wrinkling) in the roof.

Look carefully.

 

[subspd]

Met with the adjuster today after 3hrs dealing with him he would not budge and would not consider the other estimates I got from reputable shops he was 2-3k lower than everyone! Unbelievable. So I am going to call tomorrow and see if I can get above him. So ridiculous he didn't care what the shops said he just kept saying this was his estimate. This is why representation is always needed in these stupid situations.


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[truckhigh]

Shops do this all the time and then when you leave it with them to fix it the price goes up. They basically point stuff out and ask for more from the insurance. You can compare the quotes they should list hours and prices for parts. You just have to argue and say you want this shop with this quality. then ask them for a check and try not to be too far from their adjuster.

 

[Muskoka4runner]

I had similar damage done to mine on new years day... just my luck. i had the work done by the dealer and it cost roughly 4000$ (canadian) the hatch was replaced along with the corner of the bumper and centre section.

 

[iBison]

If you do work on it yourself could you take a photo pf the plastic mounting things on the side of the truck the bumper mounts to?

Thanks

 

[subspd]

Will do. Still fighting over payment for the damage.


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[2003-4x4runner]

Will do. Still fighting over payment for the damage.


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What insurance company did the other guy have?

 

[Walkenvol]

Is there any damage to the body itself? If so, that may be a deal-breaker for a DIY fix.

I replaced my back hatch after a Uhaul trailer came unhitched when loading (their fault), and their insurance just wrote me a check. So I went to a junkyard, found a good condition silver hatch for $350, and pocketed the rest.

I fixed my rear end collision similarly, except it was $750 for a good used liftgate in my area with some of the yards asking $1200-1500. Got the right color and bolted it up. Mines a 2003 with the untainted bumpers which are available aftermarket pretty reasonably and no paint required. Not a very challenging job if you're handy.

If the insurance adjuster won't consider your multiple estimates, then you don't have much choice but to lawyer up. Never know with adjusters - some are very reasonable whereas others are difficult - luck of the draw I guess.