Expert: Ron Cercone - 1/20/2010

Question
I had a 2003 Neon that was in extremely good condition, but with high miles.  I took it in to a shop to have the heater looked at. They couldn't find anything wrong so the mechanic took it for a test drive, I wasn't in the car. He wasn't paying attention to where he was driving and drove into the back of a parked semi trailer. The police were called and he was ticketed.  I can't find a comparable 2003 neon in my area and the adjuster has made his first offer, but has said he would go up because of the new tires, tie-rod, struts, and alignment I had done 2mths ago, and a 3wk old 5-yr battery.  My question is, his first offer was $4375, not taking repairs into consideration yet. I also called a dealer who said retail on my car would be $5500. I can't find a 2003, but have found a 2005 neon that is about $2000 more than his first offer. Is that considered a comparable replacement?

Answer
Juli,

It's not comparable in my opinion. Now if you find other 03 Neons with different options, miles and condition, that can be adjusted for using a Kelly or NADA book at your local public or law library or used car dealer.

And go to traderonline.com if you have to, to locate comparable vehicles, even if not in your area.

But Juli, you can get them to come up in price in ways much easier than trying to find comparable cars. These ways are outlined in the www.uclaim.com eBooks on Total Loss Auto. And they have a money back guarantee.