Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 12/25/2009

Question
Hi, I own an 05 Volvo SUV and live in the PNW where it rains alot. The car I bought has a serious design flaw in that the sunroof drain hose (3/8 ") travels on the inside of the car and this hose gets clogged very easily and when it does the water drains directly into the car here is a link that describes the problem http://www.v70xc.com/forums/showthread.php?p=83867

my car sat for a couple of weeks and when I went to use it there was literally standing water to the door jams.I sucked out over 13 gallons of it w/ my shop vac. all of the cars com puters were immersed in this water. Now my car tweaks like a brittle epileptic doors lock and unlock sensors come on, and terrible mold and mildew issues combined with the sloshing of water i can't find now my "yaw" co mputer has shorted out along w/ my brake sensors and all dash components. every car expert i have spoken with tell me the car is a total loss and this water issue will never be resolved ...I want to file a claim to have the car totalled and the title branded and the insurance co can have it for parts but I am afraid they may not do it and I will have to sue them ....what is you're advice  

Answer
Hi Richard,

Suing your insurance company is not going to help. In all insurance policies the decision to repair or total the vehicle is totally up to the insurance company. The vehicle owner has no say in the matter. Your issue is against the manufacturer. You should seek a lemon law attorney as well as check the NTSB website for recalls or other complaints of this nature. You should also ciontact the manufacturers zone representitive to seek assistance.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh