QuestionQUESTION: Hi,
I rear ended a hyundai elantra last week. THere is no visible damage to the bumper but she got a 1500 dollar estimate to repair a "twisted" frame. Does this seem like a fair price and is it likely her frame is bent with no damage to the bumper?
ANSWER: Hi Mary!....In my 25+ years of doing heavy collision work, I have never seen a twisted frame that would only require a $1500 Dollar repair....A true " Twist " in a frame, can only occur in the center section of a vehicle...The center section is from the cowl area, ( Roughly where the fender and door meet ), to roughly where the rear door and quarter panel meet, especially on a vehicle described as this....As this type of vehicle is of a Unibody type of construction....If a Unibody type vehicle has an actual Twist, it is usually written off....So in my opinion, they have their terminology wrong....That being said, a plastic bumper cover, which this vehicle does have, can actually hide some damage....As the bumper cover and bumper cushion are somewhat forgiving....So there is the possibility of some frame rail damage....Being either kicked up or down, mashed ( compressed ), or swayed ( swung to one side )....In my opinion, I would get a copy of the Body Shops estimate, and see if they can go over it with you, and show you the actual damage....Any reputable shop will have no problem with this...If you have any problem with them what so ever, please call your Insurance company....I know from years in the trade, they will be more than happy to intervene...Drop me a line if you have any further questions....More than happy to help you out....Thanks....Dave
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QUESTION: Also, is there a way to verify that the unibody damage came from a collision or some other factor?
AnswerFrame damage can and will only occur from the result of a collision....Be it from being hit from behind, or backing into another vehicle, pole, etc....There is also the possibility of previous damage to the vehicle....Some of which may not have been repaired properly in the first place....A qualified insurance adjuster should be able to determine this....As so you are not on the hook for previous damage....Thanks for your question....Dave
