Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Vandalised car - accept Insurance write off or attempt to fix?
What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Vandalised car - accept Insurance write off or attempt to fix?

My 2004 BMW 3 Series 316 Compact, which I have owned from new, was recently vandalised. The police are unlikely to find the perpetrators and the insurance company has indicated, if I proceed with the claim, they will write the car off.

I have replaced the smashed windscreen so that I am mobile. This was handled privately, not through the insurance company. The damage extends to the wing, bonnet, bumper and headlamps. We had been thinking of changing the car next year to a more practical five-door model.

I have checked online and the indicated part ex value of the Compact is £500 and the retail value of a 90,000 mile example just over £1000. Should I accept the offer to write off? My excess is £250, I have full no claims and protect it annually.

Asked on 11 October 2016 by Barry_John

Answered by Honest John
If retail is £1000 they'll probably value it at £750, which means, after your £250 excess, you get just £500. Might make more sense to do a deal, keep the car, and fix the roadworthiness bits with 2nd hand parts. But if you're happy with the £500, see if you can find a Toyota Auris hybrid sportwagon estate within your £14,000 budget to replace it. Not a 3 Series. Too many problems.

We give you the low down on how to save on insurance, little-known tricks and tips, what insurance groups mean and how to use insurance aggregators to beat insurers.

Insurance group finder and how to save on insurance
Similar questions
My parked car was crashed into by a drink driver at night, I was at home sleeping. The police arrested him for drink driving and criminal damage and arranged the recovery. My insurance (Tesco) is third...
I have been unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident. My Ferrari has an agreed value over £200,000 and repairs are circa £90,000 - however I don't want it repairing. I will not have confidence...
We purchased a small car, for our son's first car, from a small garage for £1500. The next day it seemed to be misfiring, so I phoned the guy. He seemed very helpful and said to return it for a refund....