Can my insurance company replace my 2006 car with a used motor.?

Question

My volvo S 40 was involved in a flash flood. Water entered the motor. Now the insurance company wants to replace it with a used motor. Can they do that.

Answer 1

If the motor is for your car (same year, make and model)  and has been reconditioned yes they can unless you had an OEM (original equiptment from manufacturer) endorsement on your policy.

Answer 2

No

Answer 3

It really depends on the mileage of the original motor, and the mileage of the used motor.  If the motor is actually younger than the original, AND has some kind of warranty, there is no problem.  Otherwise I would say it is not acceptable.

I have a question about the logic of repairing a flood car.  How deep was the water and did the car sit in it, with water inside for a while, or, did it drive into the water and suck it up?

Answer 4

As far as the motor is concerned, yes they can do this. The used motor should be of Like, Kind & Quality with similar miles.

You had a used motor and that is what they owe you. The policy covers to put you back where you were prior to the loss. Prior to the flood you had a used motor. Of course, you can pay the difference and put a brand new one in the car.

However, most insurance companies HATE repairing flood cars because they car is never the same and the list of problems is endless. IF the car had water reach any of the electronic components you need to have a heart to heart talk with both the adjuster and the repair shop. As an adjuster I find anyway possible to total out flood cars because they are a never-ending nightmare for both the owner and the insurance company.

Good Luck, you may need it.