Your Trusted Vehicle Diminished Value Appraisal

Understanding Diminished Value:

Diminished value refers to the loss in your vehicle’s market worth after it has been involved in an accident—even if it’s been fully repaired. Unlike standard depreciation, diminished value results from the vehicle’s damage history, which impacts its resale value. To support a claim for this loss, a vehicle diminished value appraisal provides the expert documentation you need to present to the insurance company. Without it, you may be leaving money on the table after an accident that wasn’t your fault.

Do You Qualify for a Diminished Value Claim?

You may be eligible for a diminished value auto appraisal if the following apply:

  • The accident was not your fault

  • Your vehicle is preferably less than 5 years old

  • Repairs exceeded $1,000 and have been completed

  • You are the lawful owner of the vehicle (not leased)

  • The claim is against the at-fault party’s insurance

⏱ Important Note: In Arizona, you have up to two years from the date of loss to pursue a diminished value claim. However, be aware that Arizona’s minimum property damage coverage limit is $15,000—which could present coverage challenges if repair costs or prior payouts have already consumed most of the policy limits. While you still have the legal right to pursue the at-fault party directly, it's important to act quickly. Statutes of limitations and coverage rules vary by state, and we proudly offer support nationwide—so don’t wait to have your claim reviewed.

Get your diminished value auto appraisal here:

Claim Review

Gain the answers you deserve to make an educated decision.

$ Free

  • Not sure if your vehicle qualifies for diminished value?

  • Wondering how much your car is actually worth after the accident?

  • Worried that the accident history will hurt your resale value?

  • Trying to understand your rights?

  • Need help making sense of the repair estimate or insurance paperwork?

Certified Diminished Value Appraisal

Time is of the essence! Start your certified appraisal today!

$ 497.00

  • USPAP Compliant Appraisal Report

  • Certified via IACP Licensed Appraiser

  • Supporting Documents

  • CARFAX Report upon request ($35.00)

  • Personalized Demand letter

  • Detailed Instruction on steps to follow

  • Follow up Support

  • Risk Free Money-Back Guarantee

What Our Clients Are Saying

At Collision Claims Advisors, we believe trust is earned—and our clients say it best. From first-time claimants to seasoned repair professionals, our 5-star reviews speak to the care, clarity, and results we deliver every day.

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“I had no idea I was entitled to diminished value until I found Collision Claims Advisors. Charlie walked me through the entire process and helped me recover over $5,000 I would’ve left on the table. Highly recommend!”
— Amanda R., Phoenix, AZ

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Professional, fast, and incredibly knowledgeable. I was overwhelmed dealing with the insurance company until I brought in Charles. His appraisal and support made all the difference.”
— Jason M., Chandler, AZ

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I didn’t even know what diminished value meant. After one call, I understood my rights and had a clear plan. Charles truly cares about his clients.”
— Robert T., Gilbert, AZ

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I work at a body shop and send customers to Collision Claims Advisors all the time. They’re honest, quick, and always deliver. Great resource for anyone dealing with a total loss or DV claim.”
— Tony S., Scottsdale, AZ

Types of Diminished Value

Diminished value refers to the loss in a vehicle's market value after it has been involved in an accident and repaired, compared to its value prior to the accident. Even if the vehicle is restored to a condition that is as good as or better than before the accident, potential buyers may still perceive it as less valuable because it has a history of damage. Diminished value can be a significant factor in the resale or trade-in value of a vehicle, and it is often a point of consideration in insurance claims and settlements following an accident. However, there are three main types of diminished value: immediate, inherent, and repair-related. And although inherent is the most popular, it’s important to understand all three.

Rear-end collision damage on a silver car, suitable for post-repair inspection or a vehicle diminished value appraisal and insurance claim documentation.

Immediate Diminished Value:

Immediate diminished value represents the worth of your car immediately following an accident and before any repairs are made. While this type is acknowledged by the court systems, it is seldom used by insurance companies since most vehicles undergo repairs post-accident. Depending on the accident circumstances, your insurance company may cover the cost of repairs.

Inherent Diminished Value:

Inherent diminished value refers to the reduction in a vehicle's market value that occurs simply because it has a history of being involved in an accident, even if the repairs are done perfectly and the vehicle is restored to its original condition. This type of diminished value arises from the stigma associated with the accident, as potential buyers may still view the vehicle as less desirable or more risky than a comparable vehicle without a history of damage. Inherent diminished value is the most common type of diminished value and is often considered in insurance claims after an accident.

CARFAX comparison showing diminished value of a 2012 Toyota Camry SE—used to illustrate the need for a vehicle diminished value appraisal after an accident.

Repair-Related Diminished Value:

Repair-related diminished value refers to the reduction in a vehicle's market value due to the quality or completeness of the repairs performed after an accident. This type of diminished value occurs when the repairs are not done to the highest standard. For example, the use of aftermarket parts instead of genuine or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, or from low-quality repairs resulting in issues such as mismatched paint, poor alignment, or remaining structural problems. Although there are some rare circumstances where it might be recoverable, repair-related diminished value is typically not covered by insurance, and is usually an issue that must be addressed with the original repair facility.

Auto technician performing a detailed vehicle inspection with clipboard in hand—ideal for post-repair quality checks or a vehicle diminished value appraisal.

Contact one of our Experts

Understandably, each situation is a bit unique and you likely have many questions, and perhaps feel overwhelmed. That’s okay, we are here to help. Feel free to reach out via email with any questions you may have, or if you prefer, you can schedule a free consultation call below. One of our advisors will be happy to assist you.

Email; Info@collisionclaimsadvisors

Charlie Whitaker meets with a female client inside the Collision Claims Advisors office, seated under the company name and tagline—offering friendly, expert guidance in a calm, professional environment.