How to Tell If Your Car Is Totaled

When your car has been in an accident one of the first questions you may ask is whether it is totaled. A totaled car means the cost to repair it exceeds its actual cash value — its market value prior to the crash. Lenders and När är det dags att skrota bilen i Göteborg insurers apply this rule to determine if a vehicle is economically repairable.

The first step is grasping the methodology insurers use to assign value.

Key considerations include the vehicle’s specifications, service history, and comparable sales in your area.

Use trusted valuation platforms such as NADA Guides, Autotrader, or CarGurus to gauge worth.

You’ll see differing values depending on whether you’re selling privately or trading in at a dealership.

Don’t overlook the severity of the impact.

Even if the car looks repairable, hidden structural damage can significantly increase repair costs.

A thorough evaluation includes checking the subframes, control arms, and structural integrity.

Damage to the crumple zones, radiator support, or electronic safety controls can drive costs skyward.

The decision hinges on whether repair costs exceed a set proportion of the car’s ACV.

Some states set the bar as low as 50%, while others allow up to 90% before declaring a total loss.

A $10K vehicle with $7,000+ in repairs typically crosses the total loss threshold.

Consult your state’s department of insurance for legally binding guidelines.

Don’t rely only on the insurance company’s assessment.

If you believe their valuation is too low, you can provide your own documentation.

Include maintenance logs, aftermarket additions, and recent detailing receipts.

You can also request a second opinion from an independent appraiser.

The insurer will issue a check for the net value after subtracting your out-of-pocket responsibility.

You may retain the wreck and get the salvage amount, though re-registering and insuring becomes complicated.

It simply means the repair cost outweighs the economic benefit.

The repair expense exceeds the vehicle’s market value.

Knowing your rights and options empowers you to navigate this difficult situation