Storms in March damaged the hood, top, etc. and while I thought it was bad (an my insurance company did too ), repairs turned out easier/cheaper than I expected. They offered to pay for full repair (replace hood, paintless dent repair on top/doors/fenders) and diminished value. They offered me 10% MSRP for the diminished value, but I've been reading it's more like 18-20% real world. Anyone have experience in this field that might be able to offer some advice. Thanks.

 

If it's already been repaired, take it to the Carmax over in Atlanta and tell them to appraise the car considering the hail damage repairs. They'll make you a wholesale offer and you can use that to negotiate your diminished value. 10% is waaay too low. More like 25-30%, more if they had to cut the roof off.

 

Repairs have not been done. My adjuster has been cool so far because I told him I would rather sell it as is and apply the money straight to ordering a new one (since the panels are on the way ). His first offer was to cut me a check for estimated reapir costs (which are inflated so I'm happy) and 10% dimished value. I've talked to 2 companies who do DV claims and got a range of $4000-$6000 DV (17-26% MSRP). If he hits 20%, I'm taking the check.

Anyone want a low mileage SS with some dings

 

I remember while living in St Louis sometimes it was hard to find a vehicle without hail damage, even on the dealer lots. We had some really bad stretches of storms in the early '80s. But, even with hail damage, the HHR is still an awesome ride. Plan on keeping it forever and don't worry about the diminished value caused by a natural phenomenom.

 

The DV doesn't worry me, I just want to get the most pocket money from my insurance. Especially since I've had them for over 15 years, insuring at least 3 cars at any given time, and never had a claim (knock wood:))