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How do they actually decide when a car is “totaled”?

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Posts: 21
(@jeffv68)
Eminent Member
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It’s frustrating, right? I’ve seen people get a little extra for recent upgrades, but it’s rare and usually only if you have receipts and the parts are pretty significant. Most of the time, though, they stick to that “average” value. It feels unfair when you’ve put in the work, but sometimes persistence helps—just don’t expect miracles.


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michaelbeekeeper
Posts: 12
(@michaelbeekeeper)
Active Member
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Yeah, it really does feel like a letdown when you’ve put money and time into upgrades just to have them brushed off. I’m new to all this, but from what I’ve read, the “average” value thing seems pretty standard across most companies. It’s not exactly fair, but I guess having solid receipts is your best bet if you want any of that considered. Still, don’t let it get you down—sometimes just being persistent can make a small difference.


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AutoSafe_84
Posts: 14
(@autosafe_84)
Active Member
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- Had a similar experience with my last claim—dealer-installed upgrades basically ignored, even with receipts.
- Insurance adjuster told me they only look at “market value,” not what you’ve sunk into it.
- I pushed back, sent in all my docs, and got a tiny bump, but nowhere near what I’d spent.
- Honestly, feels like unless it’s a rare model or something super collectible, they just don’t care about extras.
- Still, can’t hurt to try... just don’t expect miracles.


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mpilot26
Posts: 14
(@mpilot26)
Active Member
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Yeah, I’ve run into that too—spent a chunk on new tires and a stereo, but when my car got totaled, it was like none of it mattered. The adjuster just shrugged and pointed at the “market value” printout. I get why they do it, but man, it stings. Guess unless you’re driving something rare or have special coverage, those extras are just for your own enjoyment... and your wallet’s pain.


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Posts: 16
(@aspen_hall)
Active Member
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Man, I feel you on that one. I once put a set of all-terrain tires on my old Outback—wasn’t cheap, but I figured it’d be worth it for the next big trip. Two months later, a deer had other plans and the insurance guy basically acted like those tires never existed. It’s rough, but yeah, unless you’ve got receipts and some fancy coverage, it’s just “market value” and a pat on the back. Makes you think twice before splurging on upgrades, huh?


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