PLEASE HELP!! Parts missing/stolen

[tungfuhustle]

Hi All,

A few weeks ago, I got rear-ended and had to leave my Runner at an auto shop for them to determine the cost for repairs. The repairs ended up costing more than the cars current value so I decided I'll keep the car as is. However, the day I picked up my Runner, I found the following items were missing:

- Front-right signal light
- Rear-passenger power window switch (this door also no longer opens when I pull the handle to open the door)
- 2 Power lock bezels

I asked them how all those parts went missing over that weekend, but they claim they have no idea. I've been waiting 3 weeks already for them to replace those parts, but since my Runner is from 1997, they're having trouble gathering the appropriate bits. Now that it's been so long, they offer to cash me out.

How much should I ask for those parts and the inconvenience??

I imagine pictures will help so I will upload shortly! Thank you very much!

 

[infantry503]

I would go on an oem toyota parts website and price them out.

 

[tystaco]

I would go on an oem toyota parts website and price them out.

I agree. I'd find the highest priced OEM asking for those parts and make that my number (from a semi reputable site). I think I'd feel that fair and either take the cash and go junk yard seeking or find the lower cost OEM site and buy them and keep the extra.

 

[Unner]

I would go on an oem toyota parts website and price them out.

Exactly. Get a quote from your local dealer for the parts, or better yet get a quote from the service department for replacing the parts including labor. Then buy the parts used here on the forum or ebay and install yourself. They either stole the parts, or their lot is not secure. Either way it's their fault.

 

[octanejunkie]

The advice given so far is good, in theory, and I hope it's that easy - but it may not be.

This loss will end up being a claim against your auto insurance comprehensive policy, and your insurance company will want to subrogate against the body shop since the vehicle was in their care and control when the loss occurred. Your comprehensive deductible will apply.

Now, if your comprehensive deductible is high, or you don't have comprehensive coverage, they you need to deal with the body shop. I would start by reviewing the paperwork you signed when you dropped your vehicle off. A good body shop would have photo documented your car at drop off. If it's a mickey mouse shop (stolen parts, really?) then they probably don't have much for coverage and you will be at their mercy to honor your claim - it's your word against theirs and they aren't making any money if you pull your car out before the repair.

Your only recourse against them if they welch on you is to sue them in small claims court. Which is even more of a PITA. So maybe they are smart and will just buy you your parts and send you on your way happy.

Sorry for the aggravation and the loss, good luck. That sucks. Let us know how it turns out.

LMK if you need a referral to an attorney or insurance agent in LA

 

[Rock_Rat]

Hi All,


- Front-right signal light
- Rear-passenger power window switch (this door also no longer opens when I pull the handle to open the door)
- 2 Power lock bezels

they offer to cash me out.

How much should I ask for those parts and the inconvenience??

I imagine pictures will help so I will upload shortly! Thank you very much!

So...a few years ago while I was up in Maple Valley, Wa. I broke my golden rule and took my 4Runner through the Elephant Car Wash. I NEVER (insert cough, cough, here!) run my rig through a car wash.

Well, one of the pads got caught on my rear wiper/wiper motor and snapped it off at the bolt. Like you, the owner actually offered to "cash me out." I found the new wiper motor on Camelback, I sent the part number info along with my address. He ordered it, had it shipped to me. I did the install. I would recommend doing the same. Another option is to go directly to a dealer and get a quote and have him pick up the bill - ouch! It "should" be pretty easy if he's a reputable guy.

 

[yella]

Pretty sure i have a signal light if you want it. The one in the bumper or beside the headlight?


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