What would you do in this situation? Either get car repaired or check for repairs through insurance?

Question

I recently was in a fender bender with a big truck at low speed, however, the rear passenger quarter panel over the tire is pushed in. This damage includes the door, rear quarter panel, tire, rear bumper, and the whole area next to the trunk above the bumper on the side. By the way it is a 1998 Honda Accord LX Sedan, and I would estimate resale value of my car auto with 121,000 miles to be anywhere from 3000-5000 prior to the accident. The body shop said that the cost of the repairs in relation to the value of the car was borderline on total loss, however, they would have to check with the insurance company to see what they say. So insurance said that it was repairable. Looking at the estimate, the costs after my $500 deductible would be right around $2800 for the insurance. So I contacted my insurance agent and they said I could get the check or get it repaired.

Not sure what is more worth it to me. Taking a 2800 check and hope to sell the damaged vehicle as is or have the damages repaired then sell it fixed. The car does have some prior probs that will not be addressed in the damage from accident (A/C not working, cracked front bumper, cracked windshield, needs new fender/sideskirt). So I wonder if all these things added up make it not worth even getting fixed.

I don't have anyone to ask these questions to, so I ask all of you for your opinion/guidance/help. Thanks.

Answer 1

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Answer 2

I would consider pocketing the 2800 and selling the car as is. Then buy something in better shape.

Answer 3

If you can drive the car, take the $$$ and continue driving the car.  It is a very high mileage car and you can not sell it for the amount you want for it.  

Answer 4

Take the check and don't fix it.

Answer 5

Take the 2800 then sell for spares or repair,

Answer 6

i'd have the damages repaired and then sell it fixed- higher value, maybe.. but thats just me.

Answer 7

If the insurance company is going to give you the check take it. list the car for sale as is and see if you have any buyers. It may be in a tight economy someone would prefer the less amount to pay and if the car is drivable use it as is until they can afford repairs. Or, it may be that they could do the work themselves. At any rate if you can't sell it in that condition you can still go the other route of repairing first. Then put it back in the want adds. More options the better.

Answer 8

Good question man, well lets see, you said prior it was worth 3000-5000, needs at least 2800 for repairs, you might get 500 for it as is. I would let the insurance fix it, and sell it for 4800 when you get it back.