Expert: Michael Kakuk - 10/10/2009

Question
I am in the early stages of a battle with my insurance company, who claim that a rear end collision did not contribute to the loud exhaust noise and vibration I am now experiencing, especially when idling or at low speed. This sounds as if it is coming from the front end. I happen to know this is NOT a result of the accident, as one week prior I had a new front pipe, valve, timing belt, and four new tires put on. There was no noise or vibration. How can I convince my adjuster that this is a result of the accident when they go on a 'visual inspection for collision related damage' mentality?
I was the first car in a 3-car accident, at a complete stop, as was the car behind me. An older model pick up hit the second car at a speed I do not know. All the items in the front of my vehicle were thrown in the back as a result of the impact. I needed a new bumper and trunk, and the frame was bent, although the adjuster did not advertise this information. The Hyundai is a 2004 Elentra and the damage was $3000. so I have a feeling they will fight any additional claim.
Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
DEB....SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAVE AN EXHAUST LEAK.....AS FAR AS THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS CONCERNED THEY HAVE DENIED YOUR NOISE BASED ON WHAT?

YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE THE SHOP DIAGNOSE THE EXHAUST NOISE AND KEEP IN MIND THAT YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CHECK OUT CHARGE IF THE PROBLEM DOES NOT HAVE ANY RELATION TO A REAR END IMPACT.

THE FIRST THING TO DO IS IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM AND HAVE A COST TO REPAIR HANDY. IF IT IS RELATED
TO A REAR END IMPACT THE INSURANCE COMPANY WOULD BEAR THE COST TO REPAIR.

IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE EXHAUST SYSTEM GOT JAMMED FORWARD CAUSING A BEND IN ONE OF THE PIPES OR
WHERE THE PIPES JOIN TOGETHER....THERE IS A GASKET AT THAT POINT WHICH MIGHT HAVE SHIFTED.