sknabnoj

So, of course, I've been saving up forever and finally took the plunge to buy a new truck. I found a really good deal on a 2016 Ecoboost FX4 XLT. I literally bought it 2 days ago and my neighbor hit it this morning while it was parked outside. I've parked my car in the same spot for 3 years and of course today is the day it gets hit.

Anyway, the taillight was shattered, bumper scraped up pretty good and the back right quarter panel dented, scratched and a small tear in the bottom where it looks like the aluminum folded. I got the insurance info (Geico) and filed a claim. I haven't heard anything yet but, it's only been a few hours. Needless to say I'm pretty mad right now but, I'm wondering what suggestions you have?

I don't want a bondo job... are they going to replace the whole bed or can they just replace the quarter panel area? I assume I'll get a new tailight and bumper as well? I'm so bugged right now that I almost just want a new truck but, I know that's probably not the rational thing to do. I guess at this time I'm just looking for advice or perspective on what I should be aware of when negotiating with the insurance company. I have a picture if needed but, first i'd like a little advice.

David Young

Any body shop worth their weight in mule poop will fix your truck up as good as new. Also all good body shops will give you a 'life time' warranty on the work they do, paint and all

marshallr

It's going to be a LOT more expensive to repair the aluminum, but you won't be the one paying. I wouldn't worry much.

NFortin1966

From experience with Geico, if they are the ones paying, they will first locate junkyard parts first, if none available, they go for aftermarket parts, if those are not available then they will pay for new. This is why their rates are usually cheap.

sknabnoj

Ok... So how do I avoid this?

techrep

iTrader: (1)

Take it to the shop of your choice and one the will fix it the way you want..

Shadetree43

Check in your state if you are entitled to "diminished value". It would be filed against the responsible party's insurance. It does not matter how good a job the body shop did, the vehicle has been damaged and has "perceived" less value.

My old Grand Marquis has been parked in front of our house for years. Last week neighbor's friend backed out & wacked the left rear door. His insurance paying 100% + accepted diminished value responsibility. (now just have to wait & see what they offer for a replaced left rear door). Repairs are right at $1500.00 for a door replace & paint. Hate to think repairs will be to a new aluminum bed will be.

Also be sure who ever fixes it has worked on aluminum before.

STeXy

Normally a new vehicle gets new OE parts, never heard of used or aftermarket on a 3 day old truck. The OP should be sure to specify he won't settle for less.

NFortin1966

It may be a three day old truck to him, but to insurance companies that have to pay on a claim, its a vehicle that is no less than 1.5 years old as the 2016 model year started in 2015. They don't care when you bought the truck, even if it was new off the lot.

kbrock

Rear ended someone less than 2 weeks after buying my '13 F150 in Jan. 2017. So truck was already 4 years old. Amica replaced everything with OEM parts.

OP listen to him and don't settle for anything less. A brand new truck does NOT belong with used or aftermarket parts.