I was rear ended yesterday in my Saturn by a Ford F150. It left minimal scuffing (it knocked me a little bit but I didn't move) but everything else seems to be in order. I took down his name, number, e-mail, and address, but did not alert the police because there was minimal external damage and I know how they get if you call them out over something so petty. Plus I still have the 24 hours to make the report if there were any damages. Now, he said he would pay out of pocket since the damage to my car was simply scuffing instead of having to hassle the insurance companies. How do I know if there was any internal FRAME DAMAGE though? What does scuffing normally cost to fix anyway?? Help me out on this one. I have limited time. Thanks!
2007-09-20 03:33:06 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
"Scuffing" is some minor body and paint damage.
"Frame Damage" Car seems not to track properly, Front wheels track in a different then the rear. Unable to do a 4 wheel alignment, best way if you're unsure go to a good body shop and have them check the "Frame Alignment".
2007-09-20 16:10:52 · answer #1 · answered by sidecar0 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In order to determine frame damage, the car will have to be placed on a lift by a mechanic and inspected.
This will cost minimal, maybe 1/2-1 hour labor. If the work is done by the estimator, the inspection may be waved.
Get an estimate for all damage. Be sure you collect from the other driver before repairs. After repairs, he can refuse and you will have to sue in court.
Don't ever assume that the visual damage is all there is, especially when hit by a larger vehicle than yours.
Small scuffs may run $400 up for painting. Dents extra.
Make a police report.
2007-09-20 10:46:18 · answer #2 · answered by ed 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check:
Doors shut normally - no problems with door frames not aligned. (include boot and sunroof if there is one)
Check roof for any dents - its often an indicator of a cars structural deformations if the roof shows dents or uneven lines.
Any Damage to the extreme corners will knock the frame off and can cost more than its worth to repair (with jigging) and the car might never be the same again.
Depending on the scuffing it might be little (if its just paint touchup), medium (if paint scuffed and dents) or alot if theres more than that - if in doubt put photos online and show people or ask a garage dude!!
2007-09-20 10:44:14 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
You don't have any frame damage with a scuff. I just had three scratches fixed on my car and it cost me $1500.00. Report it report it now! Always no matter how little damage. In my experience as a business owner with multiple trucks if a F-150 hits a Saturn anything there is more than a scuff.
2007-09-20 10:42:45 · answer #4 · answered by timbugtiny 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take it to a collision place for an estimate. They will tell you if you have frame damage. Sounds like you don't. It takes a good bump to bend the frame. But, check it out anyway, they don't charge for estimates. Good Luck.
2007-09-20 10:44:36 · answer #5 · answered by FILE 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your car insurance person will send you to their recommended body shop to have it put on a "frame machine" if necessary and straigten the frame. Always talk directly to your insurance company and not to a representative of the other insurance company. Refer them to your insurance agent.
2007-09-20 10:45:38 · answer #6 · answered by bobweb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋