Geico Undervaluing My Car w/Upgrades?

[Dathaeus]

So RIP for my gorgeous car, but thats another story.

Geico seems to be ripping me off with the car. I got a couple of upgrades on top of the ZHP upgrade and when I plug it into private seller in KBB and Ed, I get $5400. They wanna give me $4100, minus deductable so I will get like $3600, cmon.

I attached my tires in the wheels section, but I'll do it here too. I hear compliments on these tires.

I also have a Dinan strut bar under the hood, looks kinda like carbon fiber/AL, like this
EBAY (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dinan-D180-0390-Front-Strut-Tower-Brace-/311615421780?hash=item488db9fd54:g:GjYAAOSwAahXPVs l&vxp=mtr)
and these seem to be at least a few hundred bucks.

What should I do, forget about it or fight for a few hundred more dollars? Every dollar helps right now since there is no way I can get something decent for $3500.

Thanks!

[az3579]

Upgrades don't actually increase the value of the car much, so I'm not surprised they're lowballing you.

I'm surprised they're offering so low though. How many miles?

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[san]

Upgrades don't actually increase the value of the car much, so I'm not surprised they're lowballing you.

I'm surprised they're offering so low though. How many miles?

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2003 with 145k miles based on the sig.

Edit: 141.5k miles

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[Dathaeus]

Upgrades don't actually increase the value of the car much, so I'm not surprised they're lowballing you.

I'm surprised they're offering so low though. How many miles?

Sorry its 141.5k, and yea I can understand that... but heck... pissing me off... so just take it up the rear hole?

Can I take the strut bar at least, that should be a 5 minute removal right? At least I can get a couple hundred I think, no? Or they gonna lie and say "OH NO now we have to readjust because we gave $300 for that!"

Also they checked off "Performance" package... is that correct? Isnt this also a "Premium package"?

[az3579]

Sorry its 141.5k, and yea I can understand that... but heck... pissing me off... so just take it up the rear hole?

Can I take the strut bar at least, that should be a 5 minute removal right? At least I can get a couple hundred I think, no? Or they gonna lie and say "OH NO now we have to readjust because we gave $300 for that!"

I would take anything valuable on the car. A strut bar didn't come from the factory, so they're not going to look for one. If you had a valuable interior, such as Natural Brown, then you could find a replacement plain Jane black non-sport interior for cheap and swap that in, and keep the NB interior, for example. The wheels, same thing - find some shitty wheels with shitty tires, swap them on, and sell the BBS'. Find some shitty halogen headlights, swap 'em, and sell the Xenons. Do as much as you can, within reason.


Also they checked off "Performance" package... is that correct? Isnt this also a "Premium package"?

Performance package is correct. Premium is another thing they can check off, as some ZHPs had that. Yours does not though, since it's a 2003, which wasn't offered in '03 in conjunction with ZHP.

[ELCID86]

Usaa made me provide comps and push back on them for a week or so before they came off their original settlement amount.

[Dathaeus]

I would take anything valuable on the car. A strut bar didn't come from the factory, so they're not going to look for one. If you had a valuable interior, such as Natural Brown, then you could find a replacement plain Jane black non-sport interior for cheap and swap that in, and keep the NB interior, for example. The wheels, same thing - find some shitty wheels with shitty tires, swap them on, and sell the BBS'. Find some shitty halogen headlights, swap 'em, and sell the Xenons. Do as much as you can, within reason.

Makes sense... I'll have to see how much this guy will charge to take some 16" BMW wheels over there to the car and bring them back for me. All that cost will also have to go into this. Dang I shoulda rented an SUV LOL, maybe I should go back to Enterprise and change that first? Would help a lot.

Any idea if this move would actually be worth it? I mean I would not do it for like a $50 profit if i had to spend like 3 hours getting all this done after paying the tire guy.

And what are the chances they deduct from the evaluation for my taking the strut bar... Probably zero right?

[ELCID86]

The stut bar is an accessory. Is the car at a yard? The one here let me have it brought around so I could remove a few after market parts.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous E46 fanatic

[danewilson77]

I would take anything valuable on the car. A strut bar didn't come from the factory, so they're not going to look for one. If you had a valuable interior, such as Natural Brown, then you could find a replacement plain Jane black non-sport interior for cheap and swap that in, and keep the NB interior, for example. The wheels, same thing - find some shitty wheels with shitty tires, swap them on, and sell the BBS'. Find some shitty halogen headlights, swap 'em, and sell the Xenons. Do as much as you can, within reason.



Performance package is correct. Premium is another thing they can check off, as some ZHPs had that. Yours does not though, since it's a 2003, which wasn't offered in '03 in conjunction with ZHP.
This. Rolling chassis is all you need.

Sent from my S8+

[Dathaeus]

The stut bar is an accessory. Is the car at a yard? The one here let me have it brought around so I could remove a few after market parts.



This. Rolling chassis is all you need.

Its at Braman car dealership. Dang I was in such a hurry to get a rental so I can move around that I didnt have time to get all this info but now the big question is, will they LET me take whatever out of the car, including these "accessories." I think it wont take much time overall for just these 2 components, not like ima start tearing the radio and speakers out, but ya....

And what are they worth in street/ebay/craigs resale value, approx?

[johnrando]

If not too late take what u can off the car that u added. If u didn't put extra insurance coverage on them they have no right to them despite what you say. They will always lowball you, show them comps and show pics of the excellent condition. They will come up. It can go to arbitration if you don't agree and they don't want that, so BE FIRM. Good luck.

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[hcbeck2689]

I didn't take the time to read all of the above, but this has been covered many times and a few by me. I settled with geico 2 years ago for my 2003 with 135k. They offered 5400 at first and final settlement was 10,600. Feel free to pm me for details on what I did. Don't get ripped off by those snakes.

Edit: I will dig around and see if I can find the paper work from the settlement.

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[BMWCurves]

I didn't take the time to read all of the above, but this has been covered many times and a few by me. I settled with geico 2 years ago for my 2003 with 135k. They offered 5400 at first and final settlement was 10,600. Feel free to pm me for details on what I did. Don't get ripped off by those snakes.

Edit: I will dig around and see if I can find the paper work from the settlement.

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This. Find comparable cars, be firm. You don't have to take their first offer.

[Dathaeus]

Thanks guys, I was starting to feel helpless but now I feel like I can say a bit more, because that lady was kinda buff and she seemed pretty disinterested in anything I had to say, not in a rude way but just like, that ol' "Ya buddy, everyone tries this and everyone fails...." voice.

Although at the end of the day, its easy for me to just take that strut again, but I am hoping someone here can tell me if they refuse to raise the evaluation, how do I know if it worth it to get a guy, to get me some right sized tires, then haul them over to Brahman, then switch them out there, and then get those tires back to my place. I dont know anyone with an SUV big enough to do all this, let alone its a pretty big hassle. If someone tells me these wheels are worth over $2k, clearly it is, but.....

[az3579]

Thanks guys, I was starting to feel helpless but now I feel like I can say a bit more, because that lady was kinda buff and she seemed pretty disinterested in anything I had to say, not in a rude way but just like, that ol' "Ya buddy, everyone tries this and everyone fails...." voice.

Although at the end of the day, its easy for me to just take that strut again, but I am hoping someone here can tell me if they refuse to raise the evaluation, how do I know if it worth it to get a guy, to get me some right sized tires, then haul them over to Brahman, then switch them out there, and then get those tires back to my place. I dont know anyone with an SUV big enough to do all this, let alone its a pretty big hassle. If someone tells me these wheels are worth over $2k, clearly it is, but.....

It seems to me like you're not sure whether all this is worth the time or hassle. If you have doubts about whether it's worth it, then don't bother. I say that because then you'll have to deal with selling those parts, which is more time and effort. Wheels are a PITA to ship, for example, and chances are they're gonna end up getting shipped to a buyer.

For me personally, it would be absolutely worth grabbing as many parts as I can since my car is practically worthless (having over 267k on it), so I'd make up the difference between a regular ZHP's cost versus mine just by grabbing all the parts and selling them off. But, I'd be willing to take the time to do all that since the amount I'm talking about is a few grand. If all you're worried about is a strut bar and a set of wheels, I don't think that would really be worth the time unless you do it yourself, since those are SUPER EASY to take care of yourself. Having someone do that for you will probably eat into the little profits you'd make on just those parts.

[san]

+1

One thing you could do is to see if there are any mafia members (or friends) who would be interested in swapping their wheels for your BBS and get the strut bar from your car for a few $. It may take an hour or two of your time but at least you don't have to worry about selling the parts.


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[Dathaeus]

It seems to me like you're not sure whether all this is worth the time or hassle. If you have doubts about whether it's worth it, then don't bother. I say that because then you'll have to deal with selling those parts, which is more time and effort. Wheels are a PITA to ship, for example, and chances are they're gonna end up getting shipped to a buyer.

For me personally, it would be absolutely worth grabbing as many parts as I can since my car is practically worthless (having over 267k on it), so I'd make up the difference between a regular ZHP's cost versus mine just by grabbing all the parts and selling them off. But, I'd be willing to take the time to do all that since the amount I'm talking about is a few grand. If all you're worried about is a strut bar and a set of wheels, I don't think that would really be worth the time unless you do it yourself, since those are SUPER EASY to take care of yourself. Having someone do that for you will probably eat into the little profits you'd make on just those parts.

Yes right on... my mechanic said he'll be willing to swap the wheels, he's pretty cheap for remedial jobs like this and he knows a tire guy as well. But ya selling I wouldnt ship, no way, ya too much cost and PITA.



+1

One thing you could do is to see if there are any mafia members (or friends) who would be interested in swapping their wheels for your BBS and get the strut bar from your car for a few $. It may take an hour or two of your time but at least you don't have to worry about selling the parts.


Great, did it, thanks!


Out of curiosity, how much would any of you pay me for these wheels, I just want a reality check. Give me a range if needed, treads are good, no damage whatsoever.

[slater]

as holden (edit: and william) mentioned above, don't take their first offer. they will ALWAYS lowball you - they are a business, and businesses like to make money. you can refuse their offer. provide examples of similar cars and what they sold for. this is perhaps 30-45min of legwork - worth it.

[Dathaeus]

as holden mentioned above, don't take their first offer. they will ALWAYS lowball you - they are a business, and businesses like to make money. you can refuse their offer. provide examples of similar cars and what they sold for. this is perhaps 30-45min of legwork - worth it.

Even if KBB and Edmunds rated it about $4k? (it was $5k when I checked both Sports AND Premium package but someone told me this model doesnt have Premium so....)

Where else should I go where I can get a $7k eval?

[slater]

Even if KBB and Edmunds rated it about $4k? (it was $5k when I checked both Sports AND Premium package but someone told me this model doesnt have Premium so....)

Where else should I go where I can get a $7k eval?

yes, the ZHP package isn't the 'sports' package. it's different, and low-production enough that it doesn't show up in systems/guides like that (as for the 'premium' package, i don't think 2003's got that?).

there are a bazillion ZHPs listed for sale right here on this website. check the 'cars for sale' forum for comparable cars and their asking prices:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?8-BMW-330-ZHPs-For-Sale-(vehicles-only)

[az3579]

KBB does have a Performance Package option for valuation, but unfortunately it doesn't really increase the valuation much on the site.
Unfortunately, this is what they try to stick to...

Your best bet will be to find similar ZHPs in mileage, options, and location, then compare their pricing to your car and show them those listings. Even better, would be to get data on what people actually paid for their cars in April/May 2017 with that kind of mileage.

[hickatew]

My mom crashed her minivan a few years back and the insurance declared it totaled, and similarly valued it low. My dad just took the payout, bought it back from insurance at a steal of a price, and fixed it up. Ended up making money off the deal

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[Dathaeus]

yes, the ZHP package isn't the 'sports' package. it's different, and low-production enough that it doesn't show up in systems/guides like that (as for the 'premium' package, i don't think 2003's got that?).

there are a bazillion ZHPs listed for sale right here on this website. check the 'cars for sale' forum for comparable cars and their asking prices:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?8-BMW-330-ZHPs-For-Sale-(vehicles-only)


KBB does have a Performance Package option for valuation, but unfortunately it doesn't really increase the valuation much on the site.
Unfortunately, this is what they try to stick to...

Your best bet will be to find similar ZHPs in mileage, options, and location, then compare their pricing to your car and show them those listings. Even better, would be to get data on what people actually paid for their cars in April/May 2017 with that kind of mileage.

Ya so I sent her a list of 10 cars being sold, 7 of them ZHP's but none in the South FL area so the lady wont take ANY of those prices, FML. Not sure what else to do here, I mean there are no ZHP's being sold down here right now.





My mom crashed her minivan a few years back and the insurance declared it totaled, and similarly valued it low. My dad just took the payout, bought it back from insurance at a steal of a price, and fixed it up. Ended up making money off the deal


How do you go through the process of buying back from your own insurance company, seems like they would not allow that. Which part of the Geico would you call and ask for? I wouldn't mind buying it back and putting a younger engine in there and then start again, still love the car.

IF THIS HELPS, SOME PARTS FROM THE EVAL PDF:

VIN WBAEV53453KM05053
Year 2003
Make BMW
Model 3 Series
Trim 330i
Body Style RWD
Body Type Sedan
Engine -
Cylinders 6
Displacement 3.0L
Fuel Type Gasoline
Carburation EFI
Transmission 6 Speed Transmission
Curb Weight 3285 lbs

VEHICLE ALLOWANCES
Package 1: Performance + 312
Odometer 141,380 + 200
Options
Home Link Reported + 22
Heated Seats Reported + 87
Hands Free Reported + 43
Xenon Headlamps Reported + 25
Aftermarket Film Tint Reported + 22
Rear Spoiler Package 1 + 65

VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
Package 1: Performance
Odometer 141,380
Transmission 6 Speed Transmission

(Doesn't this seem like they did take into account the ZHP? I don't think there is another version of a 6-speed 330i, is there? And it seems the "Performance Package" = ZHP as opposed to a sports or premium package)

[fredo]

I agree, looks like GEICO knows this is a ZHP car.

[nextelbuddy]

Ya so I sent her a list of 10 cars being sold, 7 of them ZHP's but none in the South FL area so the lady wont take ANY of those prices, FML. Not sure what else to do here, I mean there are no ZHP's being sold down here right now.






How do you go through the process of buying back from your own insurance company, seems like they would not allow that. Which part of the Geico would you call and ask for? I wouldn't mind buying it back and putting a younger engine in there and then start again, still love the car.

IF THIS HELPS, SOME PARTS FROM THE EVAL PDF:

VIN WBAEV53453KM05053
Year 2003
Make BMW
Model 3 Series
Trim 330i
Body Style RWD
Body Type Sedan
Engine -
Cylinders 6
Displacement 3.0L
Fuel Type Gasoline
Carburation EFI
Transmission 6 Speed Transmission
Curb Weight 3285 lbs

VEHICLE ALLOWANCES
Package 1: Performance + 312
Odometer 141,380 + 200
Options
Home Link Reported + 22
Heated Seats Reported + 87
Hands Free Reported + 43
Xenon Headlamps Reported + 25
Aftermarket Film Tint Reported + 22
Rear Spoiler Package 1 + 65

VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
Package 1: Performance
Odometer 141,380
Transmission 6 Speed Transmission

(Doesn't this seem like they did take into account the ZHP? I don't think there is another version of a 6-speed 330i, is there? And it seems the "Performance Package" = ZHP as opposed to a sports or premium package)



Yes there was just a 330i and 330ci that had 6 speeds with M54 as well but they werent ZHPs.

the bottom line is that this is a game of chess unfortunately. Adjusters know that, they deal with thousands of people just like you. It is their job to pay you as LITTLE as possible, they even have goals and spiffs to help encourage that. its the business.

they also are very good at playing hardball, they know YOU need money, they know YOU are the one that needs them more than they need you right now. the adjuster believes they have the deck stacked in their favor. They wil play this back and forth as long as you can but you DONT have to accept their offer. if you have a rental, they usually estimate you will only hold out as long as the rental lasts and as soon as you have to start coming out of pocket for anything they know usually you will just accept and move on. its all their strategy.


right now they are using fair market value on NORMAL cars.. auto trader, KBB, black book value blue book value and they run it through their systems to generate an average MEAN on the lowest side possible.

You as a consumer need to figure out whats it worth to you to get what you want. time is also money and they know that too.

The one thing you need to say and stick by is "can YOU get a replacement that is CLOSE or EXACTLY like yours with the money they are giving you" if they are coming at a low number,m then you need to ask the adjuster to give you THEIR sources for where that number is coming from and tell them "look ive looked at this list and none of the cars on here match my car in terms of condition (pre accident), mileage, options, color combo etc... (aftermarket just give up on you arent going to win that battle)"

if you are able replace your car with something on the list they are giving you at a comparable level then you are going to have a hard time fighting them period.

it sucks as a consumer that you pay an insurance premium for coverage only to still have to fight and work for whats deserved but that is how its always been and it is not going anywhere ever.

either take the payout if you feel the money can get you a comparable replacement.. OR say no and hold out and continue to research YOU fair market value...


Craigslist locally, surrounding states, websites like Bring a trailer that show what cars SOLD for etc... collect your ammo and hold out. they DO have to settle but they i know they have the money to hold out much longer than you do.

[Dathaeus]

Yes there was just a 330i and 330ci that had 6 speeds with M54 as well but they werent ZHPs.

the bottom line is that this is a game of chess unfortunately. Adjusters know that, they deal with thousands of people just like you. It is their job to pay you as LITTLE as possible, they even have goals and spiffs to help encourage that. its the business.

they also are very good at playing hardball, they know YOU need money, they know YOU are the one that needs them more than they need you right now. the adjuster believes they have the deck stacked in their favor. They wil play this back and forth as long as you can but you DONT have to accept their offer. if you have a rental, they usually estimate you will only hold out as long as the rental lasts and as soon as you have to start coming out of pocket for anything they know usually you will just accept and move on. its all their strategy.

right now they are using fair market value on NORMAL cars.. auto trader, KBB, black book value blue book value and they run it through their systems to generate an average MEAN on the lowest side possible.

The one thing you need to say and stick by is "can YOU get a replacement that is CLOSE or EXACTLY like yours with the money they are giving you" if they are coming at a low number,m then you need to ask the adjuster to give you THEIR sources for where that number is coming from and tell them "look ive looked at this list and none of the cars on here match my car in terms of condition (pre accident), mileage, options, color combo etc... (aftermarket just give up on you arent going to win that battle)"

if you are able replace your car with something on the list they are giving you at a comparable level then you are going to have a hard time fighting them period.

it sucks as a consumer that you pay an insurance premium for coverage only to still have to fight and work for whats deserved but that is how its always been and it is not going anywhere ever.

either take the payout if you feel the money can get you a comparable replacement.. OR say no and hold out and continue to research YOU fair market value...


Craigslist locally, surrounding states, websites like Bring a trailer that show what cars SOLD for etc... collect your ammo and hold out. they DO have to settle but they i know they have the money to hold out much longer than you do.

Thanks, this all sounds way all too right as of now, SOB pricks... Liberty Mutual seems to be playing ads that say they will always give you FULL value of your car, but then again who knows they may do the same when the time comes.

Anyways, the three examples they are comparing mine to seem like crap. So I am not sure of that process... what do I say?

"These 3 cars are not what mine is, so please provide at least one other car that IS like mine (by.... deadline? Do they even get held to a deadline?)"

And yes, what IF they say ok, and take forever, not only because they want to rip me off, but because the ZHP IS a rare car per location, since they wont look outside South FL. The "extended" my rental until Monday, so it was 6 days for rental, which is still ludicrous given I need to buy another car.

I dont mind arguing but yea, its like, time IS against me only, and this is a bad time for cash right now unfortunately, so I am almost shuddering at the fact that might need to use one of my auction guys and just get a regular 2004 330i or whatever for now and maybe do this again later when I get back into the $$$.

Sigh.

[WALSTIB]

04 Sedan in Jupiter 157k Miles $4500.00
https://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/cto/6073173462.html

05 Coupe one owner in Coral Springs 69k miles $7200.00, Nice looking car
https://miami.craigslist.org/brw/cto/6098564318.html

[Dathaeus]

04 Sedan in Jupiter 157k Miles $4500.00
https://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/cto/6073173462.html


Ya I saw this one couple days ago, he didnt reply to my email so ima try to call him. What do you think? Not sure why its listed as an auto-trans but the steering wheel looks like a ZHP part. I cant see the tach.


Ya it is, just way over budget right now for me unfortunately.

Thanks for looking out. I hope that silver one pans out, would make my life a lot easier.

[Dathaeus]

Does anyone know of am online service/directory that lists cars sold for additional ammo for me? They are refusing to consider ANY car out of state, and we all know we dont have ZHP's being sold left and right, so...

[holyc0w]

Doesn't our affiliate sell from Florida? Maybe they could help?

[WALSTIB]

Search on Ebay for ZHP and select "Sold Listings" and filter by zip code.
I did this and came up with three sales within 200 miles of 33480

29854

[Dathaeus]

Doesn't our affiliate sell from Florida? Maybe they could help?

Who are they? I guess I can give them a call if they are willing to help out....



Search on Ebay for ZHP and select "Sold Listings" and filter by zip code.
I did this and came up with three sales within 200 miles of 33480

29854

Mine is a 2003... I did a search for something like mine, only one came up and that was in bad shape, so definitely dont want to show that. Another one sold for like $7k but it had like 56k miles on it.

BTW that 2004 for $19 sold has to be a mistake with that mileage... there's no way right.

[holyc0w]

Who are they? I guess I can give them a call if they are willing to help out....

Supreme Auto Imports

You can try PM'ing GDMChRiZ (http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/member.php?4956-GDMChRiZ).

[John in VA]

Supreme Auto Imports
You can try PM'ing GDMChRiZ (http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/member.php?4956-GDMChRiZ).
Calling/texting is a better option.

[Dathaeus]

BTW my car is at a dealership right now.... since they are not giving me any additional $$$ for my BBS wheels, if I got another ZHP and swapped out the wheels, is that something you can do without getting in trouble? They only listed in the evaluation

"Aluminum Allow Wheels"

as the upgrade.

I now taking the strut bar out is quick, but the wheels will take a while and doubt they can be counted as "personal items" BUT the wheels I put in would be the stock ZHP so they are still technically what they are paying me for.

[san]

BTW my car is at a dealership right now.... since they are not giving me any additional $$$ for my BBS wheels, if I got another ZHP and swapped out the wheels, is that something you can do without getting in trouble? They only listed in the evaluation

"Aluminum Allow Wheels"

as the upgrade.

I now taking the strut bar out is quick, but the wheels will take a while and doubt they can be counted as "personal items" BUT the wheels I put in would be the stock ZHP so they are still technically what they are paying me for.

Yup, you should be ok to swap the wheels as far as I know...


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[johnrando]

I don't know what is legal, but if they have alum wheels listed, then give them alum wheels. If you did not pay for a rider for the BBS, then they did not insure BBS and they have no right to them. Again, not a legal fact, just my opinion.

[Dathaeus]

Ya I agree, and I told the inspector multiple times about the wheels but it seemed like she couldnt care less, and said "ya, they are aluminum alloy" multiple times and I was like "F^&*$ you " in my head.

I am just wondering how it looks at the dealer, I am hoping the car is at least way back in the corner somewhere at least, but wondering what I should tell the guy if someone comes and asks "what are you doing?"

I am thinking something along the lines of

"These are my personal upgraded wheels from the stock wheels Geico evaluated, and I am putting back in the stock wheels that is what is on the evaluation sheet" and then will show them the sheet to show it does not state anywhere they are BBS upgrades.

I hope that will be good enough. I am not sure what will happen if they call Geico and force to talk to me etc, etc.... and they threaten me with a lower eval for what I am doing.

This is even more critical because the new one I get actually NEEDS new wheels, so this would be the perfect solution.

[Oli77]

You just have to be upfront about it and tell the guys before you go in there.
He may not let you do the work on his property, that's why you have to ask.
What does he have to loose by letting you get your expensive wheels back, he should show some compassion.

[az3579]

If it's at a dealer currently, you're less likely to be allowed to do the work there. They don't want to be liable in case you hurt yourself on their property.
If you want to strip the car of parts, you're best off moving the car somewhere else.

[Dathaeus]

You just have to be upfront about it and tell the guys before you go in there.
He may not let you do the work on his property, that's why you have to ask.
What does he have to loose by letting you get your expensive wheels back, he should show some compassion.


If it's at a dealer currently, you're less likely to be allowed to do the work there. They don't want to be liable in case you hurt yourself on their property.
If you want to strip the car of parts, you're best off moving the car somewhere else.

LMAO..... compassion... wow.

Yes this all makes sense, but then I have to determine if its worth the cost/time of getting a tow (it doesnt drive at all, engine is dead) to a different location, get it done, and then tow it back... maybe reapply for AAA again for this ugh. Nothing is easy huh. I may just have to quickly get that strut bar, if I am even allowed to do that. Dang those wheels though.....would be such a waste.

[bimmerteknik]

I am just wondering how it looks at the dealer, I am hoping the car is at least way back in the corner somewhere at least, but wondering what I should tell the guy if someone comes and asks "what are you doing?"

I am thinking something along the lines of

"These are my personal upgraded wheels from the stock wheels Geico evaluated, and I am putting back in the stock wheels that is what is on the evaluation sheet" and then will show them the sheet to show it does not state anywhere they are BBS upgrades.



To the dealer it looks like a huge liability, an insurance risk, and for good reason.

I have seen this dealt with at work before.

They will care very little what your intentions are, in fact removing wheels may be more of a risk than someone removing seats, speakers, or engine components due to use of a jack and the increased potential for injury on the dealers property.

I can imagine it going like this. "sorry, due to insurance purposes we can't allow you to work on the vehicle here" :::insert rebuttal::: "well your welcome to call a tow truck to move it off site where you can do whatever you want to it, provided you still own the vehicle."




You just have to be upfront about it and tell the guys before you go in there.
He may not let you do the work on his property, that's why you have to ask.
What does he have to loose by letting you get your expensive wheels back, he should show some compassion.

He could lose access to lower insurance rates/premiums for the dealership. To which he is most likely an advisor, tech or shop foreman meaning they have very little to do with insurance/premiums. As that is handled much higher up by GM or in some cases a SM provided its a smaller organization which Florida has very few of meaning it's probably a corporate title holding individual dealing with the premiums. So the person who presumably gives you the ok has his/her job to risk.

Dathaeus,
It sounds like you feel you have a lot of valuable items in/on your car. ZHP's yield a nice chunk of change when parted out due to the trans, steering rack, interior etc. have you considered buying it back and selling for parts or parting out yourself? Provided you have the space, A part out is a great way to get familiar with a vehicle as it sounds like from this and your many other Threads you will be back in a ZHP. Even after the car is completely stripped and fluids drained there is usually a couple hundred in scrap metal to be had.



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[az3579]

LMAO..... compassion... wow.

It's not a matter of compassion; just have some realistic expectations when you go to the dealer. Always ask first, as it is their property, just don't expect a yes. Hopefully they don't have a problem with it.



Yes this all makes sense, but then I have to determine if its worth the cost/time of getting a tow (it doesnt drive at all, engine is dead) to a different location, get it done, and then tow it back... maybe reapply for AAA again for this ugh. Nothing is easy huh. I may just have to quickly get that strut bar, if I am even allowed to do that. Dang those wheels though.....would be such a waste.

When it comes to insurance claims, it's ALWAYS a hassle getting stuff from your car. It comes with the territory. That is where you need to decide whether it's worth the time, money, and hassle. Luckily for you, many people have gone through the same exact thing and can offer their experiences for you to learn from.

Wheels: Buy the cheapest set of alloys you can get your hands on that properly fit the car. Usually a set of Style 44's does the trick because most people don't want them, and they're 17" so they'll fit over your brakes. As a result of nobody wanting them, they're dirt cheap. Make sure they have tires on them, even if they're totally worn out.

Strut bar: Just take it off the car; it is not standard equipment so nobody's going to miss it.

Anything else: Just make sure you have something to put in its place. Example: If you want to save the interior, buy a crappy leatherette vinyl comfort E46 interior to swap in; dirt cheap, and you get the valuable leather sport interior in return.

[Dathaeus]

It sounds like you feel you have a lot of valuable items in/on your car. ZHP's yield a nice chunk of change when parted out due to the trans, steering rack, interior etc. have you considered buying it back and selling for parts or parting out yourself? Provided you have the space, A part out is a great way to get familiar with a vehicle as it sounds like from this and your many other Threads you will be back in a ZHP. Even after the car is completely stripped and fluids drained there is usually a couple hundred in scrap metal to be had.


Yes definitely... I was thinking about asking right when I get my check so it doesnt affect that process, am I wrong? Should I ask about buying it back before I get my check?

The only issue is, I have space but I am not allowed to have "junk" in my community, at my house, and I have no garage. Maybe if I can borrow someone's garage. Hmmmmm.....

I assume selling off parts will let me profit more than selling the car "without an engine" correct?

[az3579]

Please see my previous post as I posted right before you did.


Yes definitely... I was thinking about asking right when I get my check so it doesnt affect that process, am I wrong? Should I ask about buying it back before I get my check?

The only issue is, I have space but I am not allowed to have "junk" in my community, at my house, and I have no garage. Maybe if I can borrow someone's garage. Hmmmmm.....

I assume selling off parts will let me profit more than selling the car "without an engine" correct?


In response to this above post -- what does your community consider "junk"? If a car is intact, not damaged, and looks normal, on your
property, do they have a say in whether it can be there? How would they know it's junk? If you take parts off and put stuff back on to replace it, is that still considered a "junk" vehicle to them?

A potential workaround is to rent a parking space somewhere for a little while, or ask a friend. Have someone you can call?

To answer your question: Yes, your car is worth more in parts than the whole car. This is usually the case with higher mileage ZHPs.

[Oli77]

To the dealer it looks like a huge liability, an insurance risk.





He could lose access to lower insurance rates/premiums for the dealership. To which he is most likely an advisor, tech or shop foreman meaning they have very little to do with insurance/premiums. As that is handled much higher up by GM or in some cases a SM provided its a smaller organization which Florida has very few of meaning it's probably a corporate title holding individual dealing with the premiums. So the person who presumably gives you the ok has his/her job to risk.



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Perhaps, but does not hurt to try and do it.

[Dathaeus]

Wheels: Buy the cheapest set of alloys you can get your hands on that properly fit the car. Usually a set of Style 44's does the trick because most people don't want them, and they're 17" so they'll fit over your brakes. As a result of nobody wanting them, they're dirt cheap. Make sure they have tires on them, even if they're totally worn out.

Strut bar: Just take it off the car; it is not standard equipment so nobody's going to miss it.

Anything else: Just make sure you have something to put in its place. Example: If you want to save the interior, buy a crappy leatherette vinyl comfort E46 interior to swap in; dirt cheap, and you get the valuable leather sport interior in return.

I guess all this is assuming I can get all this done in a certain amount of time after I get it towed to my place?

The lady just called and texted today and basically tried to FORCE me into picking up my license plate TODAY, like WTF lady??? Last week you told me there is NO HARD DEADLINE for this, and now you are saying the dealer wants it off the lot, like that's my problem? So I ignored her followup today where she goes

"I told you last week that you needed to remove your personal belongings. You also said that you were going to remove them the other day. I need to have the vehicle removed from the dealership."

Nice vague statement huh... are they going to what, toss my car off the lot to the street if I dont get it within what, 2, 3, 10, 20 days? Is this how they work, with generic statements just to make me do what I want while they rape me on the eval? Screw them, I'll get it when I am ready, unless one of you knows/experienced "losing" your car because of this, which I cant see happening legally.




Please see my previous post as I posted right before you did.

In response to this above post -- what does your community consider "junk"? If a car is intact, not damaged, and looks normal, on your
property, do they have a say in whether it can be there? How would they know it's junk? If you take parts off and put stuff back on to replace it, is that still considered a "junk" vehicle to them?

A potential workaround is to rent a parking space somewhere for a little while, or ask a friend. Have someone you can call?

To answer your question: Yes, your car is worth more in parts than the whole car. This is usually the case with higher mileage ZHPs.

I can park a car in front forever... "Junk" means it is missing obvious parts from the outside, like the wheels, or glass, or doors/hood, etc.... If the exterior is all visually intact, they dont know any better. Imagine a security guard in his car driving around... they need to see a car that looks like it is being worked on clearly for me to get a notice. We are not really allowed to "work" on our car either but I am sure if I am taking a part out in less than 1-2 hours, it wont be a problem because I know most of my neighbors and they arent aholes, but there is a lady down the street............ so small risk if done repeatedly but not impossible.

So they are giving me $4666 which I think is still low but at this point I have to look forward because there is no guarantee that they will give me more while we drag this out. So what would be an approx MAX buy back price? I assume like $2k? (which means I have $2k less to buy a new car since there is no way I am selling off all the parts in a few days, so another consideration... isnt life great.)

[bimmerteknik]

Sounds like the dealer will soon be charging a storage fee if they haven't already. I would be concerned the insurance would hold you liable for those fees as they feel you've had enough time. I don't think your buyback will be that high though. If it was only worth 4.6k in running condition and now it's in their eyes "totaled".


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[Dathaeus]

Sounds like the dealer will soon be charging a storage fee if they haven't already. I would be concerned the insurance would hold you liable for those fees as they feel you've had enough time. I don't think your buyback will be that high though. If it was only worth 4.6k in running condition and now it's in their eyes "totaled".


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Oh ok, I dont know anything about totaled car values etc.... so like $1.5k?

And btw what is this Tapatalk that most of you use here, is it some voice to text app for the ZHP app or.....

[Oli77]

It's whatever site you regularly post on, but on your phone. No need to address this site for example while sitting in front of a computer.

[az3579]

Oh ok, I dont know anything about totaled car values etc.... so like $1.5k?


Ask the insurance company about the buyback price; they can give that figure to you.

I think you can reasonably expect to be able to buy the car back, get a new engine, and pay someone to put it in for you, all for less than what you're getting for the payout. I'm assuming a buyback is a low amount here; less than $2k. If it's more, it may not be worth it as you'd be out of pocket after all is said and done.

[Johnmadd]

Ask the insurance company about the buyback price; they can give that figure to you.

I think you can reasonably expect to be able to buy the car back, get a new engine, and pay someone to put it in for you, all for less than what you're getting for the payout. I'm assuming a buyback is a low amount here; less than $2k. If it's more, it may not be worth it as you'd be out of pocket after all is said and done.

This ^ ask about the buyback before you get the check, I have done this before and came out making money.