- Totally get where you’re coming from.
- I kept every single receipt for my old Civic—oil changes, new tires, even wiper blades. When it got totaled, the adjuster barely glanced at my folder.
- Maybe it helped a little, but honestly, it felt like all that effort didn’t matter much.
- I guess they just want to keep things simple, but yeah, it’s kind of a letdown for people who actually care about their cars.
- Still, I’d probably keep the records anyway... just in case it ever makes a difference.
I get why people say to keep every receipt, but honestly, I’ve had the same experience—when my last car got rear-ended (not my fault for once), the insurance adjuster barely checked my stack of maintenance records. It felt like they already had a number in mind for ACV and weren’t interested in anything else. From what I can tell, unless you’ve done something major—like a brand new engine or some super rare upgrade—they just go by generic market value.
Still, I hang onto records out of habit. Maybe it helps if you’re selling the car yourself, but with insurance? Jury’s out for me. Has anyone actually seen those receipts make a real difference in their payout? Or is it just one of those things we do because it feels like we should?
unless you’ve done something major—like a brand new engine or some super rare upgrade—they just go by generic market value.
Yeah, that’s been my experience too. I had a buddy who put in a high-end stereo and some aftermarket wheels, kept every receipt, and the adjuster still shrugged it off. Makes me wonder if it’s even worth arguing unless you’ve got something really unique. Has anyone tried pushing back with receipts for regular stuff, like new brakes or tires? Curious if that ever moves the needle or if it’s just wishful thinking...
Honestly, unless you’re talking about something wild—like dropping a Tesla drivetrain into your old Civic—most adjusters just see new brakes or tires as “maintenance.” I’ve seen folks show up with a folder full of receipts, and the adjuster barely blinks. Maybe you’ll get a few bucks more if your tires are basically brand new, but it’s not gonna move mountains. It’s frustrating, but that’s how they keep things “fair” across the board... or at least that’s the idea.
most adjusters just see new brakes or tires as “maintenance.” I’ve seen folks show up with a folder full of receipts, and the adjuster barely blinks.
That’s been my experience too. I had a set of Michelin PS4s with less than 500 miles on them—didn’t matter. The adjuster shrugged and said “wear and tear.” Here’s how I handle it: 1) Document everything, but don’t expect miracles. 2) If you’ve got high-end upgrades (think carbon ceramics, not just OEM replacements), push for itemized value. 3) For anything truly custom or rare, get an appraisal before you need it. Otherwise, ACV is just a polite way to say “we’re paying you what the market says, not what you spent.” It’s not fair, but that’s the game.