Articles
Diminished value and total loss articles
Plain-language guides to how accidents affect a vehicle’s value, how insurers value totaled cars, what to watch for in repairs, and how to check a vehicle’s history. For state-specific rules, see the state law pages.
Diminished value basics
Diminished value appraisal guide
Thirteen guides on measuring the loss, comparing evidence and deciding whether to order.
Diminished value vs repair cost
Why a repair bill and a loss in market value are two different things.
How accident history affects resale value
Vehicle-history reports, dealer trade-ins and why buyers pay less.
What happens after you receive your appraisal
Sending the report and demand letter, insurer responses, and next steps.
Diminished value stigma survey results
What buyers told us about vehicles with accident history.
Accident damage and repairs
Frame-related diminished value
Why structural and frame repairs weigh most on value.
What your auto body shop may not tell you
Questions to ask about repairs, parts and records.
Body shops and hidden frame damage
Why repair orders don’t always show the full story.
Certified pre-owned rules and accident history
Why many certified programs exclude damaged vehicles.
Not sure whether an appraisal will help?
The claim review is free: we look at your situation and tell you whether an appraisal is likely to help. The appraisal itself is a paid report. We help from start to finish, including a custom demand letter, and our support staff is a phone call away throughout the process.