So my 2003 GS300 gets rear-ended today as I am sitting at a red light. My trunk got smashed in and my bumper got messed up. Not sure if I got frame damage. So with this in mind:

1) Will this void my Lexus CPO Warranty?
2) Any suggestions on places to have my car fixed (I'm in Houston)?
3) Any chance the car will get totaled?
4) How much of a hit will I take on the value of my car after repair (if I want to sell it or trade it in) ?

Your help is appreciated. Thanks.

 

In repsonse:

1) It shouldn't void your warranty
2) None (I'm in Alaska)
3) From your description (bumper & trunk) I'd say no way, pics could tell us a better story.
4) That depends on the amount of damage. As long as it's minor damage and professionally repaired to industry standards, probably no hit. I've never seen fender benders show up on a car fax report. Only major damage seems to be reported.

 

1- Repairs should provide you a warranty on the work they did. eg. If they rehang the rear bumper nad the bumper falls off, then repari facility should cover that and not your CPO. In contrast, if there was no damage to engine due to accident and or repair then CPO should cover that.

2- Not familair with shops in Houston, but ask your dealer who they reccomend. Paint and finish costs more on Lexus and not all places can match it.

3- Totalled is a term based on cost to repair the vehicle vs. it pre-accident value. Insurance adjusters determine the cost of repair, you should figure out the pre-accident cost and be prepared to assert that value. It may not be a bad idea to price out another equivalent CPO. See 4 below for another option.

4- Depending on how long you want to bat, when the repairs are done, you can flat bed you car to a reseller's lot. You can go back to the insurance company to recover the difference. Expect lot of aggravation as your rental re-imbursement will cap of lot quick. If you go this route, I would suggest consult an attorney. The insurance company is required to get your car reapired or get you an equivalent. You can agree to get your car repaired, or ask for an equivalent car. Insurance company will try to find the cheapest solution.

Salim

 

If it is totaled let me know I will buy it, I have been looking fo ra vehicle with rear damage.

 

I'd say have your insurance total it out, and tell them that your car's not the same after it got wrecked.They should give u retail value for the car.- cheers

 

Since someone rear ended you and it is not your fault, get it repaired at the Lexus dealership...it would cost more than an independent body shop, but it doesn't matter since you are not paying for it....you will also get a Lexus rental car from the dealership