ChatGPT · New Zealand
My car was repaired after a crash, but I think it's worth less now. Can I claim anything for the drop in value?
Yes — in New Zealand, you may be able to claim compensation for the reduction in your car’s market value after a crash, even if it has been properly repaired. This is often called diminished value or loss of market value.
The key issue is usually who was responsible for the crash, and whether you can establish that the accident history has reduced what your car would sell for.
What can you claim?
- Loss of market value: If your car is now worth less than an equivalent car without accident damage, you may be able to claim the difference from the at-fault driver or their insurer.
- Repair costs: If you were not at fault, reasonable repair costs may also be recoverable, depending on the circumstances and what has already been paid.
- Other losses: You may have separate claims for reasonable towing, storage or temporary transport expenses, depending on the circumstances.
A claim for diminished value is not automatic. You generally need evidence that the car has actually lost value because of the accident, rather than simply because it has aged or accumulated kilometres.
How to pursue a claim
- Get evidence of the loss in value. Ask an independent vehicle valuer or motor vehicle assessor to estimate what your car was worth immediately before the crash and what it is worth after repair, taking its accident history into account.
- Collect supporting documents. Keep the repair invoice, pre- and post-repair photos, the repair assessment, and comparable listings for similar cars without accident histories.
- Write to the at-fault driver's insurer. Explain that the repairs have not restored the vehicle's full market value and ask them to compensate you for the difference.
- Consider the Disputes Tribunal if necessary. It can hear vehicle accident disputes involving claims up to $60,000. You would need to establish the basis for your claim and provide supporting evidence. See the official vehicle accident claim guidance. Car & vehicle accident claim tipsWhat the Tribunal can help with
Does it depend on your insurance?
Yes. Your options may differ depending on whether you claimed through your own insurer, the other driver was at fault, or you were responsible for the crash. Your policy's terms also matter. If you're unhappy with how your insurer has handled the claim, New Zealand Consumer Protection explains how to challenge an insurance decision. InsuranceCar insurance
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Who was at fault in the crash?
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Captured 11 October 2026