Expert Q&A

An insurance company totals a car if repairs would cost more than it is worth. An insurance company will use various sources to value your car, including, but not limited to the National Automobile Dealers Association Used Car Guide (“Blue Book”) or the CCC Information Services, Inc., guide. The company’s offer, therefore, might not recognize your car’s condition, special features or value on the local market. A company is more likely to raise its offer if you can show that your car would sell for a higher price in your area. Keep the lines of communication open. Get several used car dealers’ to write price quotes for a similar automobile. Newspaper used-car ads also can build your case. Remember these quotes and ads provide asking prices and the actual value or sales price could be lower.