Does repaired accident damage devalue a car?

We own a 2009 Ford Fiesta that was in perfect condition with just over 10,000 miles on the clock. In mid-May, whilst stationary at traffic lights with the handbrake on, a Transit van smashed into the rear of our car resulting in significant damage (and injury to me and my wife).

The van driver admitted responsibility and the insurance company decided to have it repaired by a reputable body repair company, and it now looks and drives ok. However, do you think the resale value of the car has been reduced and if so by how much?

Asked on 15 September 2012 by GR, Atherstone

Answered by Honest John

Yes. There is a sliding scale for this 'Diminution in Value'. You might need to employ an insurance loss adjustor to enforce it.

Tags: car values insurance claims accident repairs

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Ford Fiesta (2008 - 2013)

Well built with an upmarket interior. Enjoyable and involving to drive. Cheap to run 1.6TDCI ECOnetic. Exceptional reliability record. Very few problems reported despite more than 500,000 sold.