What are signs that a car is totaled?

Accidents can be overwhelming, and dealing with the aftermath—insurance claims, repairs, or even a totaled car—adds to the stress. Understanding the signs that your car might be totaled can help you navigate the process more effectively. This blog post is a general guide to help Tucson drivers understand what to look for, what options are available, and how Tucson Auto Collision Center can help.

A car is considered "totaled" when the cost of repairs exceeds the vehicle's value or a percentage of its value, which varies by state and insurance company. In Arizona, the threshold is often set around 70% of the car's actual cash value (ACV).

For example, if your car’s ACV is $10,000 and repairs are estimated at $8,000, your car would likely be deemed a total loss.

Insurance companies use various criteria to calculate the ACV, including:

• Age and mileage of the car
• Condition before the accident
• Market value for similar vehicles in your area

Signs That Your Car Might Be Totaled

1. Severe Structural Damage

Structural damage refers to any harm to the car’s frame or unibody structure. The frame supports the car’s weight and ensures its integrity during collisions. If the frame is bent, cracked, or twisted, repairs can be costly and may compromise the vehicle's safety even after being fixed.

2. Major Airbag Deployment

If multiple airbags deploy during the accident, the repair costs can skyrocket. Airbag replacements often include additional costs for sensors and modules, which can push the repair estimate closer to the ACV of the car.

3. Extensive Mechanical Damage

Damage to the engine, transmission, or drivetrain can make repairs prohibitively expensive. For instance, if the engine block cracks or the transmission requires replacement, the repair costs may exceed the car's value.

4. Flood or Fire Damage

Flooded or fire-damaged cars are often deemed total losses because the repairs required to fix electrical systems, upholstery, and other components are extensive. Water damage to the engine or electronics can also cause long-term issues that may not be repairable.

5. Body Damage Across Multiple Areas

If multiple panels, such as the hood, doors, roof, and trunk, are damaged, the combined repair costs may exceed the ACV. Even seemingly minor damage across multiple areas can add up quickly.

6. Cracked or Warped Chassis

The chassis is the car’s main framework, and repairing or replacing it is typically a costly endeavor. Damage to the chassis often makes the car unsafe to drive, further pushing it toward being totaled.

7. Older Car with High Mileage

Older cars or those with high mileage tend to have lower ACVs, making them more likely to be declared a total loss after an accident. Even minor damages can surpass the ACV in such cases.

If your car is declared a total loss, here’s what to expect:

The insurance company will offer a payout equal to the car’s ACV before the accident. This amount may be adjusted for factors such as pre-existing damage or depreciation.

You may have the option to keep the car after it’s totaled, often referred to as a “salvage title.” However, you’ll receive a reduced payout, and repairs will be your responsibility.

If you owe more on your car loan than the car’s ACV, you may find yourself “upside down” on the loan. This is where GAP insurance comes in.

GAP stands for "Guaranteed Asset Protection." It covers the difference between the car’s ACV and the amount you still owe on your loan. For example, if your car’s ACV is $12,000 but you owe $15,000, GAP insurance will cover the $3,000 shortfall.

GAP insurance is especially useful for new cars, which depreciate quickly, or for drivers who financed most of their car’s purchase price. Without it, you could be responsible for paying off the remainder of your loan on a car you no longer have.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurer immediately and follow their process for damage assessment.

Get an Estimate from a Collision Center

Bring your car to a trusted repair shop like Tucson Auto Collision Center for a thorough inspection and repair estimate.

Understand Your Insurance Policy

Review your policy to understand coverage limits, deductibles, and whether you have GAP insurance.

Negotiate if Necessary

If you disagree with the insurance company’s ACV assessment, you can provide evidence of your car’s value, such as receipts for recent repairs or listings of similar vehicles in your area.

Explore Your Options

If you’re offered a salvage title, weigh the pros and cons. A salvage title car can be repaired and driven, but it may have lower resale value and higher insurance premiums.

Tips for Protecting Yourself Financially

Consider Adding GAP Insurance

If you’re financing or leasing a car, GAP insurance is worth considering. It’s a small expense that can save you thousands in the event of a total loss.

Keep Up with Maintenance

Regular maintenance and keeping records of repairs can help maximize your car’s ACV if it’s ever totaled.

Shop Around for Repairs

If your car isn’t totaled, shop around for repair estimates to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

Consult Experts

At Tucson Auto Collision Center, we specialize in working with insurance companies and helping customers navigate the process after an accident. We provide detailed repair estimates and honest advice about whether your car is worth repairing.

How Tucson Auto Collision Center Can Help

At Tucson Auto Collision Center, we understand the stress that comes with accidents. Our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way, from damage assessments to working with your insurance company. We provide:

• Comprehensive Repair Estimates
• Professional Frame and Mechanical Repairs
• Guidance on Total Loss Decisions
• Exceptional Customer Service

If you’ve recently been in an accident and need expert advice or service, contact Tucson Auto Collision Center today. Let us help you get back on the road safely and stress-free.