Expert: William Forster - 1/13/2008

Question
I was recently rear ended in my 2005 Chevy Tahoe while hauling my 5x10 utility trailer. My frame is buckled and all the estimates say it needs a new frame.I live in Oregon and I will be required to send in my clear title for a Reconstructed title. Do I have to accept my vehicle as a reconstructed or  should the insurance (Allstate) total it out even  though the cost to replace the frame is $7000.00. I still have the vehicle. Any advice on what I should next.

Answer
Who told you that you have to send the title in and have a rebuilt title made? I don't know the laws in your state, but that sounds fishy to me. It's going to take more than 7 thousand dollars to total your Tahoe, so I'm not understanding any of this. If the adjuster told you it will need the title converted to a salvage rebuilt title, tell him that you are going to file a diminished value claim as soon as it's done. A vehicle with a rebuilt title is worth maybe a little over half of what clean title vehicle is. It's also completely void of any factory warranties, and won't be included in any type of factory recalls- no matter how severe the problem is. Maybe you need to consult an attorney. Bill