Is it worth fixing my car after an accident?
Asked by: Alivia Hettinger | Last update: November 28, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (8 votes)
What makes a car not worth fixing?
Call around and get an estimate of how much it would cost to fix your current car—including parts and labor. If the total cost of repairs ends up being more than the value of the car (even with the fix), that's usually a sign to hold off on repairs and put that money toward another car.
At what point is it not worth it to repair a car?
The general rule is to replace your car when the monthly repair cost exceeds the monthly cost of a better quality replacement. This is a bit simplistic because it doesn't consider the hassle and being without while it is fixed, but it's a starting point for your calculations.
What is my car worth after an accident?
A car typically loses 10% to 30% of its value after an accident. In some cases, the loss can be as high as 50%, depending on the extent of the damage. For example, if your vehicle was worth $20,000 before the collision, you could lose between $2,000 and $6,000 in value due to the diminished value claim.
Is it better to have a car totaled or repaired after?
Repairing your vehicle is cheaper than taking out a loan or paying monthly payments on a brand-new vehicle. It is often in the best interest of the insurance company to total a car, so you will need to look out for your own best interests.
Keep Making Car Repairs or Just Buy a New One?
Can you ask for more money when your car is totaled?
In some cases, you may get more insurance money for a totaled car than for repairs. In addition, it is possible to negotiate a higher settlement by providing evidence that your car was worth more than the insurance company's initial valuation.
Should I fix my wrecked car?
After a car accident, it's essential to assess the extent of the damage, considering safety, insurance coverage, and various factors when deciding whether to repair your vehicle. While cosmetic damages may be worth fixing, severe structural damage might indicate that it's time to consider a replacement.
How much will I get for my car after an accident?
Apply a damage multiplier: Using the 10% cap value, insurance companies multiply that number by what is known as a damage multiplier ranging from 0.00 to 1.0. The multiplier further refines the diminished value based on the damage to the car from the accident.
What is considered major damage to a car?
Severe damage usually means that key components of the car, such as the engine, transmission, or suspension, have been affected. These types of damages often render the vehicle unsafe or unable to be driven until the necessary repairs are made.
Does a minor accident affect car value?
Every reported accident, big or small, reduces your car's value in the marketplace, even if repairs return it to its pre-accident condition — and that reduction is in addition to the typical loss of value (depreciation) as your car ages.
How to know when a car isn't worth fixing?
As a common rule of thumb, if a necessary repair costs close to or more than the current value of the car, you should sell or trade it in. However, if the value of the car is high compared to the cost of repairs, it makes sense to fix it up. But don't just focus on one or two big repairs.
What makes a car unfixable?
A car becomes unrepairable when it sustains damage that compromises its structural integrity or when repair costs exceed its value. This includes a severely bent frame, extensive corrosion, the deployment of airbags, severe engine or transmission system damage, and more.
When should you give up on car repairs?
A good rule of thumb is to consider buying a new car if the cost of repairs is more than 50% of your vehicle's worth.
At what point is a car not fixable?
If the cost of repairs exceeds the car's value, it's probably best to get a new car instead. Sometimes, when a car with high mileage needs a significant repair or if your car is totaled, you might consider replacing it with a new or used vehicle.
What is the hardest repair on a car?
Engine Replacement
Greatly considered to be the most difficult automotive repair, replacing an engine is incredibly expensive. In fact, this repair is so expensive that it is often more appropriate to purchase a new vehicle rather than pay for an engine replacement.
What is the most expensive thing to fix on a car?
Engine Repair or Replacement
When it comes to car repairs, the engine is often the most expensive. The cost of engine repair or replacement depends on severity of the damage and the type of engine in your vehicle. Expect an amount ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 or more.
Does insurance cover major car repairs?
Car insurance doesn't typically cover mechanical issues unless they're related to a covered peril. Covered perils include car accidents, hitting an animal, or an object like a tree branch falling onto your vehicle.
What counts as a major accident?
What is considered a major accident? It is an accident that results in significant damage, injury, or death. There are different factors that contribute to defining a major accident, and understanding these factors can help prevent them from occurring.
Does a fender bender count as an accident on Carfax?
Do fender benders show up on Carfax? The Carfax Vehicle History Report will not include the record of a minor accident like a fender-bender if there is no official documentation. However, there is a bigger concern if the accident was not just a fender-bender but caused significant damage to the vehicle.
How much value does a car lose after one accident?
Cars Typically Lose 10 to 30% of Value After a Car Accident
Following a motor vehicle accident, the car itself typically loses approximately 10% to 30% of its value following the damage. However, the loss of value can be as much as 50%, depending on the extent of your damage.
How do you get max payout from a car accident?
- Don't be in a rush to settle.
- Get all the medical treatment you need.
- Consider hiring a lawyer.
- Do not take the first offer (or the second)
- Seek professional legal advice about the value of your case.
What does insurance pay for car accident?
If the situation is clear-cut, or one party admits that they caused the accident, the at-fault driver's auto insurance should pay for any property damage and medical bills, and in some cases compensation for other damages, such as pain and suffering.
Will my insurance go up if I repair my car?
The cost of the repairs is a factor that the insurance company uses to determine your “risk”, so a pricey repair may mean a higher risk rate in the future, hence the higher premiums.
Is it worth repairing a totaled car?
Pros and Cons of Keeping a Totaled Car
The repairs might be minimal if the car was not worth much. The repairs could cost more than the original estimate. You may receive a direct cash settlement from insurer for a part of the repairs and get to keep the car. You must apply for a salvage title.
At what point is it too expensive to repair a car?
When a repair estimate is provided by a mechanic, it's essential to evaluate whether the cost is reasonable in relation to the car's current market value. If the repair costs are approaching or exceeding the vehicle's worth, it may be a sign that it's too expensive to repair.