Extensive hail damage

[nicandlance]

My tsi is just over a month old and has been extensively damaged by yesterdays hail storm in Melbourne. Huge hailstones have smashed the windscreen, damaged the bonnet, roof area, passenger door and rear corner panel. Bonnet and roof have sustained the worst with the surface looking like a golfball. Divets every 2-3 cm.
I am comprehensively insured, but am worried it won't be will be deemed a write-off. If it is, AAMI will replace the car for a new one, but the last thing I want is a brand new car with 4 non original panels. I could just cry!!!
Does anyone have any experience in this area and does anyone know whether the insurers are likely to try and repair the car instead of replace??? :confused:

[NJAY87]

Hey Nic

I'm not far off from where you live and i guess i got lucky as soon as it started hailing, i quickly drove home and parked the R32 inside the garage luckily escaping damage !

Having worked in insurance previously but for another insurer, judging by what you have outlined, i have a strong feeling that the car will be written off as a repairable write off. Not sure about AAMI's policy but with the company i was with, if a brand new car is written off within the first two years of insurance, you have the choice of it being replaced with the exact same model or the closest match including all on road costs and it will obviously be brand new. You may also have the option of being paid out but you might want to check with AAMI. In some instances the insurer is unable to find you exact same match in which case you would get lucky and the next model up, perhaps a GTI :)

Hope that is of any help and if you have an other questions feel free to ask!!

[GoLfMan]

thats a real shame.

I got my car in the car port quick smart. It was a funny sight with 2 cars under a 1 car car port i tell you! That weather was intense!

[WhiteJames]

Sounds like nothing that a good 'dint buster' couldn't roll out.

No need for new panels with panel shop spray paint job creating a disparity in paint texture & thickness. Generally, the White VW paint has an orange peel texture, which would be difficult to replicate from a panel shop spray paint.

I had someone land a good fist four times into the bonnet of my GTI. Dint Buster simply rolled them out with no spray painting. Only thing that was replaced was bonnet clips. The bonnet was not even removed. Can't tell any difference from pre-malicious damage bonnet. These guys work miracles.

Requirement for rolling out dints is that dint has to be a depression into the panel, which is what all your hail damged dints should be.

Only other thing you'd require is new windscreen. Hopefully no water damage.

Cheers.
WJ

[MurphyTheElf]

.... and a healthy little kickback for the dealership. Wink wink.

Seriously though, I bought the VW insurance because it offered the best price/feature balance. Under-30 turbo owners might be out of luck though.

[Driven Threads]

My tsi is just over a month old and has been extensively damaged by yesterdays hail storm in Melbourne. Huge hailstones have smashed the windscreen, damaged the bonnet, roof area, passenger door and rear corner panel. Bonnet and roof have sustained the worst with the surface looking like a golfball. Divets every 2-3 cm.
I am comprehensively insured, but am worried it won't be will be deemed a write-off. If it is, AAMI will replace the car for a new one, but the last thing I want is a brand new car with 4 non original panels. I could just cry!!!
Does anyone have any experience in this area and does anyone know whether the insurers are likely to try and repair the car instead of replace??? :confused:

Sorry to hear this news. Such bad luck. I heard Rowville was one of the worst hit suburbs. Sure was a freak storm. Best of luck with repairs etc.

[nicandlance]

I really don't want the repairs.... I'm hoping they write it off and replace it like they keep spouting on their ads. I'm of the firm belief that a car is never the same once panels are replaced etc... Who wants a month old car with 4 replacement panels? Not me....
The roof is bombarded with pelt marks and so is the bonnet.

Guess I'll just have to wait and see....

[G-rig]

Sorry to hear the news, hopefully gets sorted soon.

Hail damage looks bad but would be easily fixed these days, and a lot better than having a crash etc.

Hopefully it is a write off anyway.

[Highlander]

Sounds like nothing that a good 'dint buster' couldn't roll out.

No need for new panels with panel shop spray paint job creating a disparity in paint texture & thickness. Generally, the White VW paint has an orange peel texture, which would be difficult to replicate from a panel shop spray paint.

I had someone land a good fist four times into the bonnet of my GTI. Dint Buster simply rolled them out with no spray painting. Only thing that was replaced was bonnet clips. The bonnet was not even removed. Can't tell any difference from pre-malicious damage bonnet. These guys work miracles.

Requirement for rolling out dints is that dint has to be a depression into the panel, which is what all your hail damged dints should be.

Only other thing you'd require is new windscreen. Hopefully no water damage.

Cheers.
WJ

This hail was so intense it collapsed part of the roof on Docklands stadium. Even praying to Mother Mary McKillop won't help repair the hail damage in Melbourne yesterday and she has more pulling power in the miracle area than dint busters.

[Highlander]

I really don't want the repairs.... I'm hoping they write it off and replace it like they keep spouting on their ads. I'm of the firm belief that a car is never the same once panels are replaced etc... Who wants a month old car with 4 replacement panels? Not me....
The roof is bombarded with pelt marks and so is the bonnet.

Guess I'll just have to wait and see....

I feel for you, especially after the wait for your car in the first place.

If they do classify it as a repairable write off, maybe you can negotiate to keep it until your replacement arrives if there is not a similarly specced vehicle available in the reasonable future.

Quick Nic. Stick some GTI badges on it before the assessor arrives

On another note, Every cloud has a silver lining. It AAMI decide to replace it you will know exactly where to go for a window tint.

Keep on smiling even though it must be hard.

[Kirium]

I really don't want the repairs.... I'm hoping they write it off and replace it like they keep spouting on their ads. I'm of the firm belief that a car is never the same once panels are replaced etc... Who wants a month old car with 4 replacement panels? Not me....
The roof is bombarded with pelt marks and so is the bonnet.

Guess I'll just have to wait and see....

Shame to hear about your car. Hopefully they give you a new car, but IMHO I wouldn't be too worried about little more than panel damage if they don't do new for old. While you may not like the idea of new panels, at least they're purely cosmetic and not structural. I'd be more concerned about getting new for old on a small fender bender where the cosmetic damage may be insignificant, but chassis rails and structural integrity have almost inevitably been compromised in some way..

[nicandlance]

The shine has defiantly been taken off the excitement of getting my new Golf... I feel really flat.
5 panels have been affected.... one month old and it looks like a wreck.
It will never be the same... I don't have a lot of faith in the whole idea of getting repairs done.

I guess AAMI are pretty safe in saying they will replace a new car that has been written off, because the car is worth around $32 thousand and it would have to be pretty bad to cost that much in repairs.

I'm sure they will do just about anything to avoid replacing it...
Hoping for a replacement but not high hopes. Don't think AAMI will really care too much if I'm not happy...

[G-rig]

The point is the rest of the car is perfectly fine, companies will repair a fair bit before replacing it.

Make sure you are 100% happy with the repairs if that is the outcome, and you may be surprised it is as good as new (just the mental thing knowing)!

Otherwise sell it if you're not happy.

[nicandlance]

Don't think I could afford to sell it although it's a nice idea. I struggled enough to find the money for this one... :-(

[Scourge]

I was sitting in the Netball/Hockey stadium in Melbourne (the Cage) for the WNBL grand final and the noise was so loud it sounded like you were standing next to a jet engine - couldn't hear a thing for about 5 minutes - then a few skylights got punctured and the roof started leaking...

A guy at my work got his car hail damaged and it was a brand new turbo Astra worth 40k (this was years ago). They didn't right it off. Instead they replaced all the panels that could be replaced and on the roof they drilled holes through the centre of each dent them pulled the dent up a bit then put a rivet in the hole and bogged over. The result was actually pretty damn good and you couldn't tell the car had been repainted as I think they pretty much painted the whole thing. Personally I would have sold it they day I got it back but the reality is if you had the choice between accident damage and hail damage I'd take hail damage - its non structural and you don't have to worry about panel alignment - the repair is asthetic and done right should be hard to spot.

[hoi polloi]

Although I only know you from these forums I feel deeply sorry for you... I remember reading in your posts how excited you were to get the new Golf...

For what it's worth, I know what you're going through - my then 2 y.o. Toyota Corolla copped it in Sydney's 1999 hail storm... The car was insured for $20k and there was $15k damage - the insurance company wouldn't write it off and although there was no glass breakage just about all the panels were replaced (even had a new roof welded on)... Needless to say it was never the same - had it for another year before trading it in...

On the bright side I have had paintess dent repairs done on other vehicles since and that is definitely the way to go if the car is not written off...

Regards,
- Anthony.

[Maverick]

The shine has defiantly been taken off the excitement of getting my new Golf... I feel really flat.
5 panels have been affected.... one month old and it looks like a wreck.
It will never be the same... I don't have a lot of faith in the whole idea of getting repairs done.

I guess AAMI are pretty safe in saying they will replace a new car that has been written off, because the car is worth around $32 thousand and it would have to be pretty bad to cost that much in repairs.

It doesn't have to cost $32,000 in repairs to write the car off. I'm not sure of the formulas they use but it only has to cost a certain percentage to be written off (maybe 80%) taking into account the disposal value.

What they take into account is the cost of repairs, the likely hood of repairs running over that cost and the resale value of the car as it is before repair.

Assuming you have $10,000 worth of damage to your car but the car will fetch $18,000 at auction they will write it off and a panel beater will buy the car, fix it up cheaply and sell it off. If there are many cars affected by hail there will be a backlog of repairs and they will take this into account along with the cars age.

In the case of your damage the roof is where the repair becomes very expensive as this is laser welded down the right and left side of the roof and they may write it off because of this even if the damage is less.


I'm sure they will do just about anything to avoid replacing it...
Hoping for a replacement but not high hopes. Don't think AAMI will really care too much if I'm not happy...

AAMI are a rubbish insurance company, do a search on here for the many problems that people have had. You can also do one on golfmkv.com where a guy crashed his car into a small ditch on the side of the road and damaged mainly the front wheel. The estimate for repair was around $10,000 but the repairer managed to screw up every panel on the car including underneath and the interior. The car spent three months going back and forth before AAMI decided to write the car off as it was going to cost at least $32,000 to repair the damage caused by the original repairer.

I hope that they do replace the car and don't repair it for your sake as you will spend a lot of time going back and forth if you have an eye for detail.

[Mk6 Golf]

My TSI...has been extensively damaged by yesterdays hail storm in Melbourne.

Aaaargh!!! I know I would be very sad if I were in your shoes! I'm very sorry to hear that however, unfortunately, I am unable to help with insurance matters. That said, I am glad you posted this "new car tragedy" story as it's made me re-think my insurance cover as I too have just purchased a new Golf (albeit the 103TDI model).


...I can honestly recommend Volkswagen's branded Allianz insurance. ...3 years new for old. Your choice of repairer and Genuine parts and labour only.

I must admit I had not given my new car's insurance much thought. I will now! Thanks for the tip.

[Mk6 Golf]

...I struggled enough to find the money for this one... :-(

I feel your pain. Let us all know if the insurance company does the right thing by you, i.e. give you a new car! I agree with you, even if it's all fixed up, good as new, just knowing it was damaged is enough to spoil the joy. :(

[mr gee]

Sorryto hear about your ride. I was lucky to be home when the hail came and we never experienced hail that intense in our life. luckily, we only suffered minor damage to our house though my mate up the road at napoleon had all the windows smashed on the one side and leaks in the ceiling. his driveway looked like a tornado went thru

[Christopher]

Nic, sorry to hear about your car. It's a real shame what happened and you're not alone. I've got a fair few friends who's cars have been damaged...

But a quick question, say if the insurance companies writes it off and says it will provide you with a new car, will there be a long wait for the replacement?

[moniker]

This hail was so intense it collapsed part of the roof on Docklands stadium. Even praying to Mother Mary McKillop won't help repair the hail damage in Melbourne yesterday and she has more pulling power in the miracle area than dint busters.



Just making sure, the company is dent busters, not dint busters right??

[pologti18t]

Nic, don't listen to the naysayers regarding AAMI.

My Peugeot 306 GTI was damaged in the 1999 Sydney Hailstorm and was insured with AAMI.

It was at a repairer the next day and fixed in 2 weeks by a very good repairer. The paint work and finish was superb.

[Maverick]

Nic, don't listen to the naysayers regarding AAMI.

My Peugeot 306 GTI was damaged in the 1999 Sydney Hailstorm and was insured with AAMI.

It was at a repairer the next day and fixed in 2 weeks by a very good repairer. The paint work and finish was superb.

Maybe she should make up her own mind, there are hundreds of complaints on here about AAMI and very few positive posts. Go and talk to smash repairers and they will tell you what they think of AAMI. And take a look at the places that do AAMI repairs, you won't find any of the places with good reputations dealing with them.

Their business model is based around lowest quote get's the job, the repairers who are desperate for business go to the AAMI depot, take a quick look at the cars and submit their bids. The company that submits the lowest bid get the work. They than have customers pick up direct at the repairer because they know that most customers wouldn't have a clue and would miss bodgy repairs and it saves them from having to deal with the others who have to sort it out with the repairer.

I've had a number of claims through AAMI over a 7 year period and they were getting progressively worse each time. The last time the manager was making wild claims about it coming from the factory with the rear fixed window (subaru outback) sticking out over 10mm from the body when it was just the build up of adhesive (four times the window came out and the last time they scratched the tint all over).

Occasional you might get an ok repair but there would be few and far between unless you want to explain how the lowest price can afford to do a good job when AAMI screw them throughout the process.

http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/newforum/upload/showthread.php?t=13327&highlight=aami

http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/newforum/upload/showthread.php?t=3368&highlight=aami&page=2

http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/newforum/upload/showthread.php?t=21385&highlight=aami&page=3

And the example I used earlier.

http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=72420

"It has now been 6-weeks of waiting for my Insurance repairs and I have finally got my baby back. The problem is my baby now looks retarded and wails like a banshee... every single panel is misaligned, covered with imperfections and the metallic elements of the paint aren't matched correctly. As well as this I have a CONSTANT METAL ON METAL GRINDING NOISE which is loud as fark. My passenger side power window doesn't work - parts are yet to arrive. My GTI foot sill insert (passenger side) is also missing. My steering wheel now shakes when doing 100km on smooth tarmac (all details are listed below) "

http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=78889

Four months of screwing around and they finally write the car off.

"Well its been 4 months since the stack and after numerous conversations with my insurer, my GTI has been written off"

[G-rig]

I agree, AAMI is $H1T, I would never recommend going with them for a slightly cheaper premium. This is based on no choice or repairer and horror stories i've heard.

[Corey_R]

I've personally had a good experience with AAMI BUT I did it with a decent amount of risk. Firstly, knowing how bad the AAMI repairers were, I'd go to them, get a quote. I'd then take it to who I wanted to repair a car (a GIO and Allianz certified place) and had to pay for them to do a quote!. The reason for this is that most repairers also know how bad AAMI are and won't provide a quote for free because they know AAMI's policies.
Thankfully though, on both occasions, after taking the car to the AAMI inspection warehouse and talking to the assessor, I've been able to take the car to the place I wanted, as the bodgy AAMI certified repairers always leave something really important off in order to get the job - so the assessor had to give it to the repairer I wanted due to it being a more complete quote.

As soon as I was old enough for a good insurance company to insure me - I switched away from AAMI.

I was only driving a Toyota back then, but I would NEVER risk a good car like a VW Golf with AAMI though.


My tsi is just over a month old and has been extensively damaged by yesterdays hail storm in Melbourne. Huge hailstones have smashed the windscreen, damaged the bonnet, roof area, passenger door and rear corner panel. Bonnet and roof have sustained the worst with the surface looking like a golfball. Divets every 2-3 cm.
I am comprehensively insured, but am worried it won't be will be deemed a write-off. If it is, AAMI will replace the car for a new one, but the last thing I want is a brand new car with 4 non original panels. I could just cry!!!
Does anyone have any experience in this area and does anyone know whether the insurers are likely to try and repair the car instead of replace??? :confused:

I think that you may have some chance, as Maverick said, the Golf uses several laser welds. These are really hard and expensive to repair locally if they need to replace panels. So you may be lucky. Cross your fingers :)

[G-rig]

Should have rolled it at the same time.

[Maverick]

I think that you may have some chance, as Maverick said, the Golf uses several laser welds. These are really hard and expensive to repair locally if they need to replace panels. So you may be lucky. Cross your fingers :)

I'm picturing some dodgy backyard repairer sitting on the roof arc welding the new piece in now with the cars battery connected so he can listed to music :eek:


Should have rolled it at the same time.

Bit hard to do when the car is stationary :banana:

[pologti18t]

Maybe she should make up her own mind, there are hundreds of complaints on here about AAMI and very few positive posts. Go and talk to smash repairers and they will tell you what they think of AAMI. And take a look at the places that do AAMI repairs, you won't find any of the places with good reputations dealing with them.




Exactly how is your comment helpful as she IS insured with AAMI and she needs to get her car fixed...

[Maverick]

Exactly how is your comment helpful as she IS insured with AAMI and she needs to get her car fixed...

That's right but she is now aware that AAMI's repair are not to scratch so should pay extra attention to the repair process, the repairer and the finished product if AAMI should go down the repair path.

Forewarned is forearmed and all that.

On the other hand I could just ignore it or lie and say that AAMI are a great repairer but that goes against the purpose of the forum doesn't it?

[nicandlance]

Thanks everyone for your help.....

When they send someone out to assess the damage I will be letting them know (politely of course), that I would prefer for them to write it off.
I'm hoping that doing that and selling it at auction will be more viable to them (weighed up against the cost of repair).

If they decide to repair it, (and considering it's only 4 weeks old), I will be absolutely pedantic about the finish, and am prepared to send it back again and again if the paint finish and colour is not as it was before this happened. (Or if there are rattles, bog or other rubbish going on that weren't there before).

I'm not looking forward to what lies ahead if I have to go down that track.... I'd much rather wait 6 months for a replacement :-(

[Pauly]

I feel for you nicandlance

My dad is going through the same thing with his 2 month old Tiguan. There are about 50 dints all over the car from all the hail.

Hes hoping its a write off too.

[nicandlance]

Please let me know how he goes.... is he with AAMI too?

[Pauly]

Please let me know how he goes.... is he with AAMI too?

Nah he is with GIO from memory.

He also has a Honda that is also in the same boat. So he is tossing up wether to do them at the same time or in intervals.

Because its all good and well to declare it a write off, but that means you are without a car.

And a Golf/Tiguan has waits of 4+ months.

So its going to stuff alot of people up.

Sure you can get a rental car, but thats for a max of 2 - 3 weeks from memory?

[G-rig]

It's probably too late now but the cheapest premium isn't always the best (could be worth changing insurance for next time). Hopefully the AAMI repairs go well if they do repair it, and let us know how you get on.

[deuce]

Best way if they do repair your car is to inspect the repair and measure paint thickness in microns, this can be done before the car goes in for repair and after it comes back to make sure it has not been over loaded with filler etc. The best way to get the test done is at chisholm tafe etc at the auto paint department, the guage is costly. if they keep getting it wrong , keep sending it back..in the end, they will right it off..is best to state in the beginning your intentions..you want the car in as new condition..and will be having it tested to be sure it is..then they know to do it right the first time.

[roy]

hope it can be fixed in a short time...

[Allegiance]

When I had my company car repaired due to an accident, I had to grab some gear out of it whilst is was being repaired.

Car really smelled like cigarette smoke. Whilst I couldn't smell it when I picked it up, I wasn't happy that someone had been smoking in it.

[Coaster]

Best of luck nicandlance. I'd hate for my slippery new car to be damaged out of the blue (or grey as is the case).

Some relatives in Melbourne had their ~1 year old Mazda MX5 damaged by the hail. Apparently it was written off.

[Corey_R]

Best way if they do repair your car is to inspect the repair and measure paint thickness in microns, this can be done before the car goes in for repair and after it comes back to make sure it has not been over loaded with filler etc. The best way to get the test done is at chisholm tafe etc at the auto paint department, the guage is costly. if they keep getting it wrong , keep sending it back..in the end, they will right it off..is best to state in the beginning your intentions..you want the car in as new condition..and will be having it tested to be sure it is..then they know to do it right the first time.

That's not a bad idea if you have access to the equipment... give AAMI fair warning that you have the equipment and the measurements, so they better be damn confident that they can fix it properly first time! hehe

[Spook]

This on GoAuto (http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/3F98BA22AC6414B7CA2576E00004BAD6)today. Helps to visualise the damage I suppose.


Dealers face damage bill in the millions after hail smashes car stocks in Victoria
8 March 2010

By RON HAMMERTON

DOZENS of Melbourne car dealers are counting the cost of Saturday’s massive hailstorm which damaged hundreds of new and used cars on forecourts across the eastern suburbs.

The damage bill to cars alone is expected to run into millions of dollars, with dealers already signaling plans to hold “hail damage” sales at discounts of up to $15,000 to clear away the mess.

Hail stones as big as tennis balls dented panels and smashed windows as the storm – a remnant of the same tropical system that inundated areas of Queensland and New South Wales last week – cut a swathe across the middle of the Melbourne metropolitan area in what has been described as a one-in-100-year hail storm.

One of the worst-hit areas was the outer eastern suburb of Ferntree Gully, where the largest hail scored a bull’s-eye on about 12 dealerships lined up in a popular car shopping strip on Burwood Highway.

In scenes reminiscent of Sydney’s Parramatta Rd disaster some years ago, almost every vehicle parked in the open suffered some damage. Broken rear windows also let torrential rain flow into the cars, compounding the problem.

Toyota dealer Gavin Werner, of Graham Werner Toyota, told the Herald Sun that only 40 or 50 of his stock of 230 new cars and 110 used cars had escaped damage in the storm.

Mr Werner, who valued his stock at $8 million, said he had watched helplessly from the showroom on Saturday afternoon as the hail hammered the cars, some of which he believed would have to be written off.

He said the dealership had been preparing for a grand opening of its new Burwood Highway facility.

“Now we are going to have a hail sale instead of a grand opening,” he was quoted as saying.

Thousands of private cars were also pummeled, showing evidence of glass damage and dimpled panels over a wide area, from Nunawading to Belgrave in the Dandenong Ranges.

In inner areas of the city, more damage was caused when dozens of cars were trapped in flooded streets. In many cases, the hail was so thick on the ground that it blocked storm water drains. Shredded leaves brought down by the hail also contributed to the problem.

Some of the more minor hail damage to car panels will be repaired using suction techniques, but others hit by the biggest hail stones are being assessed to see if they are worth repairing.

Unlike many car dealers in the northern states where hard lessons have been learned about hail damage, few Melbourne dealers have hail netting to protect vehicles stored in the open air, as hail in the southern state is rarely sufficiently big to cause panel damage.

Most manufacturers, however, pay to store wholesale new-vehicle stocks under protective netting at storage facilities such as ManheimFowles and Prixcar, just in case.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/03/Hail_damage_largejpgOpenElement-1.jpg

[Spook]

Hope you get the car written-off Nicandlance. I had gone through AAMI for smash repairs and hail damage before, and in that instance, the repair was well done.

I was just in Melbourne a couple of weeks ago, and had a Jetta as a hire car. Glad we missed this hailstorm or we would have to fork out the ridiculous $$$ excess.

[Dubya]

Thanks everyone for your help.....

When they send someone out to assess the damage I will be letting them know (politely of course), that I would prefer for them to write it off.
I'm hoping that doing that and selling it at auction will be more viable to them (weighed up against the cost of repair).

If they decide to repair it, (and considering it's only 4 weeks old), I will be absolutely pedantic about the finish, and am prepared to send it back again and again if the paint finish and colour is not as it was before this happened. (Or if there are rattles, bog or other rubbish going on that weren't there before).

I'm not looking forward to what lies ahead if I have to go down that track.... I'd much rather wait 6 months for a replacement :-(

Really sorry to hear your upsetting news - I was caught up in your excitement and anticipation for your new car too!

Looking ahead however, your approach is right, but to confirm and set out some more steps and options:

- try and get on the assessor's good side, as I am sure you are intending to and will do;

- express your concern about having such a new car turned into a much less valuable (ie hail-damaged) vehicle (however this is economic loss and not what MV insurance policies cover; they cover damage, but convey the "vibe" of what is going down;

- if AAMI refuses to write it off and replace it, don't take "no" for an answer without doing the maths yourself - ie find out the cost to AAMI of repairing it, what AAMI might get at auction (the market will be flooded) and see what it will cost AAMI to put you in a new TSI (eg $32k - $15,000 salvage = $17k vs say, $13k in repairs).

So, say it was a $4k difference - put pressure on AAMI not to have a most dissatisfied customer instead of a delighted customer for the sake of, in this example, $4k difference in claim cost. Use any examples of family and friends who have policies with AAMI or other policies that you have or have had with AAMI (eg long-standing/loyal customer).

If this does not work, as a last resort, try and negotiate a deal by offering to contribute a portion (say 20% to start) of the difference between the two options. Escalate to the regional manger (sales) if necessary. The claims manager will be motivated to drive claims costs down.

This may not be an option for you but you really have to explore all options if you are gong to come out of this in reasonable shape.

Bear in mind too that your car will be off the road for 6 weeks minimum - maybe a lot longer as there will be a backlog of repairs.

Presuming AAMI elects to repair the car (my 2yo V40 was extensively damaged and repaired after Sydney's 1999 event and the more valuable the car the less likely a write-off I am afraid):

- call the top repairers and find out how such damage to Golfs is repaired and what method is best;

- ask the assessor how such damage will be repaired and insist on the best approach;

- ditto with the actual repairer;

- only agree to leave the car if the repair time is acceptable and the repairer agrees to provide a rental/loan car if they miss their deadline

- get the arrangement in writing. This will ensure they do not take your car too soon - it is not intended to get you a loaner!

- inspect the work in progress regularly to confirm that it is being repaired as agreed (also in writing).

I hope you can get your way with AAMI - - - they sound like sharks who deserve all your no-doubt-considerable charms can extract!

Good luck - and PM me if AAMI is not cooperative upfront.

[nicandlance]

AAMI want to send out someone to replace the windscreen so I can drive the car around until it's assessed.

Not sure whether getting the new window in before the assessment will hamper my chances of having it written off (after they have gone to the expense of putting a new window in).
Is it worth holding off and waiting till someone comes out to look at it, or won't it make any difference? (I guess they have to have a window in it to sell it at auction anyway......)

And thanks Dubya for all that info... I will definitely use all those tips! Wish I had you (or someone who can roll all this stuff off the tongue like you) here to do the talking for me!!

[Dubya]

AAMI want to send out someone to replace the windscreen so I can drive the car around until it's assessed.

Not sure whether getting the new window in before the assessment will hamper my chances of having it written off (after they have gone to the expense of putting a new window in).
Is it worth holding off and waiting till someone comes out to look at it, or won't it make any difference? (I guess they have to have a window in it to sell it at auction anyway......)

And thanks Dubya for all that info... I will definitely use all those tips! Wish I had you (or someone who can roll all this stuff off the tongue like you) here to do the talking for me!!

You're most welcome, Nic (further suggestions below).

An assessor could be a long time coming and if the 'screen tilts it one way over the other (not likely) you can negotiate.

[G-rig]

just make sure its a genuine VW windscreen.

[nicandlance]

When I spoke to the windscreen company, that was the first thing I told them (that I'd need a genuine vw screen). Didn't seem to be an issue.

This whole thing makes me feel ill :-(

[Dubya]

AAMI want to send out someone to replace the windscreen so I can drive the car around until it's assessed.

Not sure whether getting the new window in before the assessment will hamper my chances of having it written off (after they have gone to the expense of putting a new window in).
Is it worth holding off and waiting till someone comes out to look at it, or won't it make any difference? (I guess they have to have a window in it to sell it at auction anyway......)

And thanks Dubya for all that info... I will definitely use all those tips! Wish I had you (or someone who can roll all this stuff off the tongue like you) here to do the talking for me!!


AAMI will insist on repairing the TSI unless (A) Replacement cost - (B) Salvage (ie trade in value) is less than (C) Repair cost.

So you want to minimise A and maximise B and C. So question C (and the quality and suitability of the proposed repair) if the figure AAMI comes up for C is a lot lower than what you have been quoted separately.

I would talk to my dealer and ask for their suggestions on how you might dispose of your hail-damaged TSI and what special deal they might do in the circumstances on a replacement. If you can establish a lower replacement price for a new TSI than AAMI can get, keep it up your sleeve as it may help you bridge the gap between changeover cost and repair cost.

Getting on well with the claims assessor/loss adjuster could be key to knowing what numbers AAMI is working off - if you see their assumed replacement cost is higher than the screaming deal your dealer might do this could present an opportunity. If they are being overly conservative on salavage value, consider what opportunities this presents.

While it is entirely possible no wholesaler will be prepared to offer anything for a hail-damaged car until the market settles down, or will seriously low-ball it, it is worth exploring this option as prices offered now may be higher than are being attained at auction later on.

Your other option if AAMI does not come to the party is to take a cheque for the repair cost and manage the process yourself. In this case you would need to know you were getting a more than adequate amount for repairs. If sufficient, it might provide you the option of selling your TSI yourself with hail damage and using the repair cost to cover the difference. This would be a tall order of course as the the discount at which HD cars sell should be some multiple of the expected repair cost.

Also, if the car is financed, the financier has an insurable interest and could well expect any cheque to go to them to pay down your loan to reflect the diminished value of their security (your TSI) or insist the car be repaired. Their interests could limit hamper your options and hamper your maneuverability.

I guess the bottom line is get all of the facts, from several sourcesand explore every avenue and option - even (especially) the ones not presented by AAMI as options.

It is essential that you have a selling price or repair cost for your TSI locked in, in writing, in a binding agreement, before you do anything that is not straight up and down (eg taking a cheque from AAMI) unless uncertainty about these numbers is a risk you can afford to take. You can be more certain of course, from information on this forum etc, about what you can expect to pay for a replacement TSI.

[nicandlance]

OMG.... my head is spinning! :frown:, but thanks for the advice - I will email the salesman that sold me my car and see what he has to say.

AAMI have called me.... I have to go to Preston which (for those of you who know the suburb I live in), is nowhere NEAR me!
A few people I have spoken to have all said their cars are getting repaired. Some of the jobs being done are scaring the hell out of me.... there are going to be shonky operators doing hellishly shonky jobs!

I'm feeling less and less confident by the day about the possibility of getting my car written off, and more and more depressed by the day. Not looking forward to Sunday - hope I get an assessor who wants to help me out and do what's right.... Maybe I should wear something LOW cut??!!

[Swallowtail]

OMG.... my head is spinning! :frown:, but thanks for the advice - I will email the salesman that sold me my car and see what he has to say.

AAMI have called me.... I have to go to Preston which (for those of you who know the suburb I live in), is nowhere NEAR me!
A few people I have spoken to have all said their cars are getting repaired. Some of the jobs being done are scaring the hell out of me.... there are going to be shonky operators doing hellishly shonky jobs!

I'm feeling less and less confident by the day about the possibility of getting my car written off, and more and more depressed by the day. Not looking forward to Sunday - hope I get an assessor who wants to help me out and do what's right.... Maybe I should wear something LOW cut??!!

Hope you get it sorted out Nic... it's a bugger of a thing to happen :(

Oh and by the way if you go in wearing low cut make sure you post pics so we can advise whether it's suitable or not... :emo_baghead:

EDIT - oh, unless it's Lance wearing low cut....

[Corey_R]

Maybe I should wear something LOW cut??!! lol! Definitely, use EVERYTHING at your disposal at this point in the game! :D

[Rufus]

Just like nicandlance my car too got caught in the storm. It has about 20 or so dents surrounding the body with about 6 dents located on the roof. I've got full comp with RACV and am still waiting to hear back from them as their lines have been jammed the past few days, so i've had to lodge a claim via email.

My car is a 118TSI manual with votex body kit, sunroof and fog lights - 3 months old.

Is there any chance it's a write off or would the damage be too minimal???
Rough estimate for repair???

Thanks in advance

[team_v]

How did the sunroof hold up?



No one on this site will be able to give you an approximate price for repairs as it will depend on what work needs to be done.

Write off is probably unlikely however.

[Rufus]

sunroof is appears to be fine. No damage that i can see to any windows although haven't closely inspected

[nicandlance]

Ha ha, no it won't be Lance wearing the low cut.... definitely will be me! Low cut, push up, push together, in your face... whatever the hell works!!!

[G-rig]

Maybe start crying too (oh and short skirt!)

[nicandlance]

Maybe start crying too (oh and short skirt!)

Perhaps.... no knickers? OH NO, NOW THAT'S GOING TOO FAR!!! :rolleyes:

[nicandlance]

I'm really hoping for write off too.... when are you getting your assessment? My car has damage (in varying degrees) to 6 panels (maybe even 7) Roof and bonnet the worst - particularly the roof.
As it's only 4 weeks old, I'm really doubting I will get it back in it's 'as new' condition.... sob....

[flappa]

This thread is useless without pictures :banana:

[Maverick]

Perhaps.... no knickers? OH NO, NOW THAT'S GOING TOO FAR!!! :rolleyes:


This thread is useless without pictures :banana:

Here you go.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/03/GRANNYPANTYJPG-1.jpg

[MurphyTheElf]

Here you go.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/03/GRANNYPANTYJPG-1.jpg

:eek: Moderators? Hello?

[pologti18t]

When my Peugeot was hammered by the Sydney hail storm I took the car then next morning to the AAMI centre on the OTHER SIDE of town (away from the hail storm area) for service. I got 3 quotes organised and dropped the car off to AAMI that morning and refused the replacement windscreem. They paid for a taxi to work and that was that. Picked it up two weeks later.

The longer you wait the longer it will be before it can be repaired. If they replace the windscreen they you can drive it until they repair it. That could take months.

[G-rig]

:eek: Moderators? Hello?

They are on here, can't believe these posts haven't been deleted.

[Corey_R]

They are on here, can't believe these posts haven't been deleted.

They aren't just on here, one of them started this line of comments! ;)

[G-rig]

They aren't just on here, one of them started this line of comments! ;)

You're joking :eek:

[jayjay]

oh no! moderators not moderating?!?! :)

i actually thought that was a giant t-shirt... :o

nic - does your policy with AAMI entitle you to your choice of repairer?

[G-rig]

nic - does your policy with AAMI entitle you to your choice of repairer?

Don't get her started.. that is why you don't go with AAMI.

[ozvino]

OMG.... my head is spinning!
AAMI have called me.... I have to go to Preston which (for those of you who know the suburb I live in), is nowhere NEAR me!


Not sure if when you have to go out to Preston but I live about 1km from that centre, its a huge facility just next to Northland Shopping Mall; easy from your side of town, jump on Eastlink, all the way around to the Bulleen exit, shoot up to Bell Street and turn right into Murray Rd (from memory), its only 30 min for you now Eastlink is up and running (you will be surprised)

Take the windscreen and get mobile; the number of cars damaged is huge, the wait for repairs will be significant.....also dont underestimate the ability to repair a car in this day and age.....

Good luck

[STV4SYT]

I had my car repaired by AAMI about 18 months ago, they wanted me to take the car into their centre and get it assessed etc, etc. I refused, the other option they gave me was to get 2 quotes myself in my own time then bring them plus the car to their centre and they would decide then. My mate is pretty handy spray painter and i wanted his employer to get the work. needless to say i got it in there and they did a top job on it.

With AAMI, to get it done properly it may take some running around but dont let them just take your car and farm it out.

[Spook]

This was posted in the Skoda section:


I work for a car insurance company and we have been absolutely smashed with calls from people's cars which were damaged in the hail storm. We've been working overtime and we have extended our hours to compensate for all the calls. Most of them will be written off , especially if they have damage to the roof.

A glimmer of hope... perhaps.

[pologti18t]

I
With AAMI, to get it done properly it may take some running around but dont let them just take your car and farm it out.

Thats exactly what I did. Got 3 quotes and left it too them. It says in the FAQ you can get a quote from a non-AAMI approved repairer if you want. They will compare it to two from AAMI repairers

[Stealthy]

Hello nicandlance.
As much as it may pain you, could you please post pictures of your damaged car on the forum?
Though I hardly post on here, I too enjoyed reading of your excitement when you got your new Golf. I have been there too, although mine's a 103TDI.
Anyway best of luck with the claim etc.

[nicandlance]

Not sure if I can show pics...

I have tried taking photo's, but the glare from my once lovely paintwork stops the damage from showing up in a pic! Also, it has been raining here on and off, so while the car is wet you don't see the extent of damage - in fact it looks fine till it partially dries!

Thanks for the directions Ozvino.... maybe it won't be such an trek out to Preston after all.

Spook, I was hoping that damage to the roof might write it off, but I have had a number of friends tell me that their Insurance companies are opting to repair rather than write off - despite any damage to the roof of their car. Whether or not the fact that my car is only 4 weeks old makes any difference is yet to be determined. I'm hoping it's more viable for them to sell it at auction, still get a reasonable price for it and replace it for me.

[nicandlance]

Got my assessment on Sunday in Preston..... have you heard anything yet?

[Swallowtail]

Yes mods are in here, and it's all been good healthy fun so far... although that pic Mav posted nearly made me choke on my breakfast...

Good luck Nic, keep us all posted.

[nicandlance]

Here you go.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/03/GRANNYPANTYJPG-1.jpg

Are they yours???? OMG!
(And I agree... all good clean fun so far, nothing offensive)
God knows I need a laugh right now.....

By the way, is it true there is no provision for laser welding to be done on cars in Australia? If they tell me they have to replace the roof, perhaps I can use that to sway them from any decision not to write it off? After all, I bought the Golf for its safety (amongst other things), and the frame is a major part of that. If they spot welded a new roof on, it just wouldn't be as was.....

[Lima]

Hmm, sorry to hear of your woes. I'd definitely be seeking some advice from Volkswagen as well. Especially in regard to the laser welding.

On a positive note (of sorts) I hit a kangaroo in my then 3-week old MINI back in 2004. I was insured with AAMI and was able to nominate a preferred repairer to quote on the job. This didn't guarantee they would get the job of course, but I was advised I was perfectly within my rights to nominate one repairer to quote.

It was then explained to me by my AAMI contact that they would choose the "best fit" quote. That is, they would assess both pricing and scope of repair and if one repair was deemed to be better than the other then they would most likely take that option, regardless of price.

The upshot of that was my preferred repairer was chosen, and apart from it taking a total of 7 weeks to repair, everything was pretty much spot on when I got the car back.

AAMI was very easy and professional to deal with. YMMV of course, and their policies may have changed since then as well.

I don't insure with AAMI now, mainly because they don't offer windscreen replacement for ACT residents, and with both the GTI (QBE) and S3 (NRMA) having rain sensing wipers I'd rather have glass coverage for that than not.

[Intensive]

It is unlikely the car will be written off. You need to get a quote from a high end prestige panel shop whose aim is to make it almost impossible to detect the car has been repaired. They do exist- for example my wife's car ( another german marque unrelated to VW)- total repair bill > $30000 after the front end was removed by a turning truck. When traded the receiving dealer did not detect it had been involved in such a collision. Simply ask who BMW and mercedes recommend as repairers; however it extremely unlikely that a budget insurers will award them the job. What you can do however is after your car has been repaired take it to high end repair shop and pay them to inspect the car and indicate what rectification works are required. Unfortunately the panel shop that did the work will then have to fix the job to that standard- they are able to do this but they then lose money. The budget insurers are cheap for a reason- they pay the repairers less and therefore you will get the lowest quality repair possible. They get away with because most customers accept this with its "lifetime guarantee"

[nicandlance]

If I could swear on this forum, I would.......:(

(Although I have heard someone say that their one year old Mazda was written off after hail damage... wonder what the deciding factor was there?)

[cme2c]

Hi, Nic,

Sorry to hear about you car.

A mate of mine is a good smash repairer, in Blacktown. he fixed my Peugeot after I ran into something soft ( a Hyundai) and it drives perfectly, even years later.

He whinges about the cost of equipment to repair modern cars, and about some of his "competitors" that take short cuts, replacing panels when a side of the car should be replaced, repairing things that manufacturers say should not be repaired (very important with high strength steel.) He keeps up to date with courses in the latest techniques.

After the hailstorm,it took 9 months for the backlog of cars to be fixed.When the hailstorm hit here, there was basically a triage system, get the writeoffs written off, then fix those that are off the road or have major damage(like roofs etc), lastly those that have the odd dimple. He brought in a paintless dent specialist, sort of a "storm chaser" who follows hailstorms around NSW.

I urge you to find out, from VW or an authorised repairer, how the car SHOULD be fixed. It's not just the appearance, but your safety that's at stake. Like Maverick's picture......

John

[team_v]

If I could swear on this forum, I would.......:(

(Although I have heard someone say that their one year old Mazda was written off after hail damage... wonder what the deciding factor was there?)

Hail through the windscreen letting water into the interior could be a cause.

Water damage to the interior adn the electronics would be quite costly and then you have to add on the body work and replacement windscreen.

[cme2c]

before
http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/03/206ouch-1.jpg

after

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/01/26012010001-1.jpg

[nicandlance]

I can not seem to take a break....
The windscreen mob just turned up to replace the screen, and ..... oops, bought the wrong one!
Idiots. Anyone hear me screaming?

Maybe I should get a tatts ticket for this Saturday - my luck has to change sometime!!! :mad:

[cme2c]

I can not seem to take a break....
The windscreen mob just turned up to replace the screen, and ..... oops, bought the wrong one!
Idiots. Anyone hear me screaming?



I can, and I'm in Sydney!

[pologti18t]

If I could swear on this forum, I would.......:(

(Although I have heard someone say that their one year old Mazda was written off after hail damage... wonder what the deciding factor was there?)

If it was a $15K Mazda2 then the repair cost may have exceeded the worth of the vehicle

Nic... my Peugeot 306 GTI had the best paint job on it after the hail repairs. It was insured with AAMI.

From the AAMI website for new cars under warranty:
"New genuine parts will be used except for the replacement of windscreens and window glass for which Australian manufactured, Australian Design Rule compliant parts may be used."

[diesel_DSG]

Just like nicandlance my car too got caught in the storm. It has about 20 or so dents surrounding the body with about 6 dents located on the roof. I've got full comp with RACV and am still waiting to hear back from them as their lines have been jammed the past few days, so i've had to lodge a claim via email.

My car is a 118TSI manual with votex body kit, sunroof and fog lights - 3 months old.

Is there any chance it's a write off or would the damage be too minimal???
Rough estimate for repair???

Thanks in advance

HI Rufus,

I work for RACV, and we basically have had more than a months claims lodged since Saturday afternoon - about 16000, with more than 60% of them motor claims. This is FAR worse than the Black Saturday (being in the Metro area, higher density of policy holders)

Without an assessor seeing your car, its virtually impossible to determine whether your car is a total loss or not. Assessment centres are in the process of being set up (the Altona one started taking cars today, the Waverley one will be in tomorrow).

Now given that your car is a new (ish) car, unless the damage is catastrophic, its unlikely that your car will be a TL.. Nanna's 86 beige Corona on the other hand....

We are setting up paintless dent removal sites along with the assessing sites - modern paintless dent removal is pretty impressive, im a picky prick and i'd be happy to have it done to mine (not just saying this because I work for the insurer).. no cars will be bogged up, you can count on that.

Please dont believe all the negative rubbish you may read or hear about insurers, believe that there are 1000's of people dedicated to helping you out and that we are doing our very best to do just that!

Deez.

[Maverick]

Please dont believe all the negative rubbish you may read or hear about insurers, believe that there are 1000's of people dedicated to helping you out and that we are doing our very best to do just that!

Oh come on, are you saying that all the people who have had so many problems with claims with companies like AAMI are making them up?

AAMI use the cheapest repairers and do below standard repairs because most people won't pick it up and when they do the repairer has to carry the cost of repair. And AAMI are not the only one's who do this, NRMA went down this path in NSW with repairers having to quote over the internet by looking at photos of the smashed cars (which was backed out after a while IIRC).

Insurance companies are in business to make money and the best way to keep the prices low and keep profits up is to screw the repairers and ultimately the client. This is why I went to a company that allows me to get my own quotes and choose my own repairer, after having been through the AAMI claims process a number of times and seeing the repairs quality drop with each one I wasn't going to insure the GTI with them.

[diesel_DSG]

Yep, thats the way AAMI roll, you drop your car off at their assessment centre, then use the cheapest repairer, then you pick your car up from the assessment centre - so you never get to see the squalid conditions in which your car was repaired.

Yep, NRMA rolled a similar thing out in NSW a few years ago, then promptly rolled it back in when it was unworkable (and due to the MTA taking them to court about being locked out of the quoting process)

RACV doesnt roll that way at all, but you can believe what you choose to believe about it. IF people feel so strongly against insurers, hey, no one is holding a gun to anyones head to get comprehensive insurance!

Insurance companies are a bit like coppers, everyone hates em till they need em!

Deez

[Maverick]

Yep, thats the way AAMI roll, you drop your car off at their assessment centre, then use the cheapest repairer, then you pick your car up from the assessment centre - so you never get to see the squalid conditions in which your car was repaired.

At least in Queensland you generally pick the car up from the repairers.


RACV doesnt roll that way at all, but you can believe what you choose to believe about it. IF people feel so strongly against insurers, hey, no one is holding a gun to anyones head to get comprehensive insurance!

Insurance companies are a bit like coppers, everyone hates em till they need em!

Settle down, I've never been with RACV and have only commented on my experiences with AAMI that are not isolated. There's no mention of people hating insurance companies but hating certain companies. Just because people might hate Hyundai's doesn't mean they hate all car manufacturers.

[macdoc]

How much water entered the car and where did it get in? Windscreen / side windows etc.

Take a couple of photo's of the broken glass if you can & post them up.

I deal with insurance companies & assessors all the time (repairer), I may have a couple of suggestions for you.

:rolleyes:

[nicandlance]

How much water entered the car and where did it get in? Windscreen / side windows etc.

Take a couple of photo's of the broken glass if you can & post them up.

I deal with insurance companies & assessors all the time (repairer), I may have a couple of suggestions for you.

:rolleyes:

Thanks Macdoc,
As far as I can see, no water has entered the car.... except perhaps through the side mirror which had its cover smashed right off. The electricals were all exposed there - we have just popped the cover back on but its still broken. The windscreen although broken was covered in star smashes but still holding together.

[hoi polloi]

Good luck with everything...

- Anthony.

[Tigger]

Hi Nic,

Firstly...very sorry for you guys. I'm sure it is very painful.

Well you sure got the "works" from everyone's replies...

I agree with the dignity and composure of the posts from Dubya. Just keep your cool and dignity if possible and show that you are mild and keen to get this resolved as soon as possible in order to get on with the important things in life.

I have found that the key sometimes is "less is more" ie not saying too much, and therefore letting your initial request to get this written off taken seriously. Dont get too worked up "against" the assesor or company (keep that up your sleeve if nec for later)

Kepp them "on-side" if possible. Remember, that often at the crunch time, it is just one or two people's signatures on some paperwork that can finalise a matter....try and find the right person...

Document everything!!!! Every call, Every repairer consulted, your mechanic, dealership etc.. every AAMI person's name and position etc. etc. and take plenty of pics for your records.....

Hope it all goes well!

Does this make sense? or am I just waffling?

Best of luck!

[nicandlance]

Thanks Tigger, I intend on keeping my cool.... but we have waited a long time to get a car like this and to have it destroyed like this hurts like hell. I don't intend to go in and jump and down, but I will ask if they would consider leaning towards replacing it. Although no water went into the car through the windscreen, it did get into the side mirror when it was blown clear off... don't know how much got in through there or what damage (if any) it did.
I certainly won't be happy if they try and tell me that they have to replace the roof (like the guy down the road that had his $90,000 work truck damaged), particularly if the safety factor of laser welding is not accessible here.
Been on to VW about how they would recommend fixing the damage.... nothing concrete back yet....

Can only wait and see... very nervous! :(

[decksla]

just wanna say good luck with it all.

im in rowville too (gimme a wave if you see a silver relli tearing around) and my wifes car got hit, though not too badly.

shes with allianz and they are organising a huge assessment centre where we'll have to drive the car into to get checked. Its an 04 Euro and has around 20-30 dents. There's a chance of a write off.

Anyway, i wouldn't really worry about panel damage if they decide to fix it. there's most likely no structural damage and so once the dents are repaired, it will be like new (possibly better than new if you arc up enough about orange peel in the paint :) ).

Most new cars off the line don't have a super great paint job to begin with and so if you can score a top notch cut and polish, could be looking better than new.

[soogs]

Just to cheer you up Nic, our pergola fell down in the storm on the w/e and we are insured with AAMI. After Mav's dire warnings, I thought I'll get the third degree when I rang to lodge the claim. I couldn't be more wrong. The operator was the most pleasant person I had encountered. He said, just get it fixed and send us the bill, no assessors, no 20 questions and claim lodged in under 5 mins.

So good luck for Sun.

[Tigger]

Hi guys,

Yep, i know things will work out well for you. Please keep us informed how it all goes, and dont feel bad about wanting things to go your way. After all, this is what insurance companies are here for. You pay them to represent your wishes...

I would only stress that in the end you just want to get on with life, so can they pls make this whole experience as smooth as possible.

Chat soon!

[nicandlance]

Good luck has shone on me today!

After a shocking start to 2010 (first a woman backs into me after I've had my tsi one week, then the hail storm blows apart half my house and 2 of our cars, then my uncle dies of cancer and it's only March....)

CAR WRITTEN OFF, NEW ONE ON THE WAY!!!!!!! (Hopefully soon) :banana:

Thank you to everyone for your help...

Had my notes in case I needed to argue the point, but had a lovely assessor who barely even looked at the car. He hadn't even walked up to us and was saying 'this one's going to heaven'. We'll replace it new for new... think about whether you want the same colour or not.....

Best thing I've heard in weeks.....

Now, to start thinking about whether I'll go for the same colour..... black, grey, white again? I don't know.... :cool:

[Highlander]

Good luck has shone on me today!

After a shocking start to 2010 (first a woman backs into me after I've had my tsi one week, then the hail storm blows apart half my house and 2 of our cars, then my uncle dies of cancer and it's only March....)

CAR WRITTEN OFF, NEW ONE ON THE WAY!!!!!!! (Hopefully soon) :banana:

:

Will be interesting to see what they do in the meantime. Do you get to drive your golf ball replica (current car) until the new one arrives assuming you are lining up for a six months wait once again - or is something else provided in the meantime?

[Transporter]

Good luck has shone on me today!

CAR WRITTEN OFF, NEW ONE ON THE WAY!!!!!!! (Hopefully soon) :banana:

Thank you to everyone for your help... :cool:

That's good news! Can you post the pictures of the damage? It would be good to see how big the roof damage has to be in order to get the car written off?

I hope you wont be a wheel less, while waiting for your car. :)

[nicandlance]

No, they took the car then and there.
I will be driving my husbands battered up Astina for a while....

The roof damage was pretty bad... up to about a hundred dents right across the top. The sides of the roof (above the doors) were also bashed in, bonnet had about 50 dings. Side mirror also busted off.

Took out my floor mats (just in case).

I don't care about the wait so much - it will be frustrating, but I was more worried they'd try to save themselves money and fix it.

So far - very happy with AAMI. Gave us a taxi home from Preston to Rowville, assessment quick and painless (just shaky knees on my part), staff all very friendly.
Perhaps I wouldn't be so happy if I had to get repairs, but thankfully I haven't had to deal with that.

[Lima]

Good news on your replacement car Nic. Hope you get a new one in double quick time.

[DracZ]

Been keeping an eye out on this thread since its inception (I've just signed up with AAMI just a couple of weeks back), great news and congrats on the replacement! :banana:

[Christopher]

Great to hear Nic. Sounds like your luck is turing!
Did they give you an indication as to how long your wait will now be?

[mr gee]

All the best. Nic, now you can spec the Golf you would have wanted. :)

Have been with AAMI for 10 years and have been happy with them.

[SpeedBird]

Thats good news, and you can get a 2010 year build one to. Hopefully Take Two will be better when it arrives.

Now you might as well see which auction house it will go to and perhaps see how much they are going to sell it for to finish off this chapter.

[nicandlance]

Thats good news, and you can get a 2010 year build one to. Hopefully Take Two will be better when it arrives.

Now you might as well see which auction house it will go to and perhaps see how much they are going to sell it for to finish off this chapter.

It's going to Fowles. Wonder if they'll tell me what it sold for?

Don't know about the wait yet. AAMI will call me this week (I hope), and we'll go from there. Not sure if they will source the car, or whether they'll give me a cheque to do the shopping myself.
Hoping there is a car on the way that suits my specs... then I won't have to order one and wait the extra 25 weeks that VW says the wait has been blown out to!

[Corey_R]

then I won't have to order one and wait the extra 25 weeks that VW says the wait has been blown out to!

Which page does it say that on Nic ?

[SpeedBird]

It's going to Fowles. Wonder if they'll tell me what it sold for?

You should be able to track it if you know when the auction date is, perhaps go down and see what it sells for.....would be interesting to know. Then I can see it turning up on a used car lot once some dodgy repair man applies his touch to it.

[Splashalot]

Just want to add my best wishes - sounds like you've had a rotten year to date. They say bad things come in 3s, so hopefully that's your lot for quite a while.

[Tigger]

Hi Guys!
Glad things worked out well!

Now you can enjoy the fun of picking up a new one again! That thrill of buying a new car never wears off.

Hey out of interest, what was your VIN number...so that we can keep an eye out for a "bargain low kms" mk6 for sale on some sort of internet car sale site!! Bet they re-register it too so it doesnt have any link to you.

All the best for the rest of this year...and let us know when the new one is due!

[Swallowtail]

Good stuff Nic, glad to hear it went OK.

[nicandlance]

Which page does it say that on Nic ?

I didn't read that here. I was told by the sales manager at Burwin.
I rang them to see if they had damaged cars (they are not too far from us), and to ask what was happening with those that were. (That and a few other questions regarding repairs).
He said that this incident had put the wait back 25 weeks.
Not sure whether this is correct, but I know I am one of several around here that have had cars badly damaged. I guess it makes sense that there would be extra orders...

[triode12]

Good excuse now to upgrade to the new GTI. Looks like you deserve a treat after all that has happened to you.

[nicandlance]

Hi Rufus, my tsi was written off yesterday...

Took it out to Preston (AAMI) assessment centre, and it was all very quick and painless.
People were lovely - very helpful, very efficient!

We got there half an hour early and pulled up at the door of the warehouse. The guy at the door knew exactly who we were, and guided us into this huge warehouse where dozens of cars were lined up for assessment.

Someone came up and ran us through what was going to happen.
They had paint-less dent removal people shining lights over cars to see if they could be repaired, and initially it appeared as though they were going to work their way up the line to us.
(I have to tell you, I was pretty nervous at this stage)

We'd been there all but 5 minutes, when a guy came up and introduced himself as an assessor. In his next breath he said 'this cars going to heaven'.
I have to tell you, I breathed a BIG sigh of relief. As much as I loved my car, I had grave doubts that it would ever be the same.... it was pretty bad. I think I would have had about 50-70 dents on the roof alone.

He gave us a couple of bags to put any personal items in (I took my floor mats), and they had a taxi for us within ten minutes. Went home and had a wine......

I know I will probably have a big wait now for a replacement... but I think it will be worth it!

Good luck with yours Rufus - let us know how you go!

[roy]

congrats!

hope there'll be your spec around here...order would take a long long time...

[nicandlance]

Good excuse now to upgrade to the new GTI. Looks like you deserve a treat after all that has happened to you.

Would be nice but don't think that will happen :-)
We were stretching it to buy the 118 tsi, but have to say that we were really happy with it. Quiet, zippy and smooth - loved it.

Would be good if AAMI upgraded to the gti because no stock was around to match our criteria, but that's dreaming.
Just pleased I didn't have to stress about a dodgy job being done on the car I had....
A nice fresh tsi (maybe even a different colour), will be great. I'm happy!
It will be worth the long, but frustrating wait!

[MaccaTSI]

Hi Nic,

Just wanted to say good luck with everything, glad you're getting a good result from the insurance company!

[Spook]

Good result Nic. Now you can rest a little easier. :cool:

Just make sure that any new car you (or AAMI) source is not repaired out of a dealer's yard, or you could end up with what you wanted to avoid in the first place - a repaired Golf.

[nicandlance]

No chance! I'll be tracking my new one like i did my last!

[Tigger]

Hey guys!

One great thing now is that (if you are paying off the car on a loan of some sort), then you will have a brand new car and be well ahead in terms of repayments. At least a few months??
This will mean that you will owe less than the car is worth...maybe this will help you keep ahead of the dreaded first few years of depreciation...

Look forward to your updates when the new one is ordered!

[pologti18t]

Hey guys!

One great thing now is that (if you are paying off the car on a loan of some sort), then you will have a brand new car and be well ahead in terms of repayments. At least a few months??
This will mean that you will owe less than the car is worth...maybe this will help you keep ahead of the dreaded first few years of depreciation...

Look forward to your updates when the new one is ordered!

Except you are paying the loan while you have no car to drive.....

[tee_off]

I've been following this thread and I'm happy you got a good outcome and service! Will the replacement be the same model and specs?

[nicandlance]

They have to replace it with the same model and specs... but I don't know what happens if they can't find one. Depending on how keen they are to settle everything (and I think that with all the claims they possibly will be), they might even get me one with something I didn't have as an option before...

I guess it all depends on what is available. Keep you posted.... someone is supposed to call me within the next few days.

[Rufus]

Glad to hear it was a write off nicandlance. I've only got about 20 or so dents to my car so I doubt it will be a write off although I pray it is... Getting assessed this monday...

[Dubya]

Good luck has shone on me today!

After a shocking start to 2010 (first a woman backs into me after I've had my tsi one week, then the hail storm blows apart half my house and 2 of our cars, then my uncle dies of cancer and it's only March....)

CAR WRITTEN OFF, NEW ONE ON THE WAY!!!!!!! (Hopefully soon) :banana:

Thank you to everyone for your help...

Had my notes in case I needed to argue the point, but had a lovely assessor who barely even looked at the car. He hadn't even walked up to us and was saying 'this one's going to heaven'. We'll replace it new for new... think about whether you want the same colour or not.....

Best thing I've heard in weeks.....

Now, to start thinking about whether I'll go for the same colour..... black, grey, white again? I don't know.... :cool:

Great news! And not just a little amazing . . .

Well done!

(Silver does not show dirt much at all, and if they charged you more for it, I've read metallic is "only" a $500 option now.)

By the way, could you not have kept the car as a loaner while the replacement is on order?

Anyway, good luck with it all.

Cheers

[nicandlance]

Thanks Dubya, Going down to AAMI today with all the paperwork for the car. Hoping to get the ball rolling as soon as possible because of the long wait I expect to be in for.
As far as I know, keeping the car was not an option. Perhaps there's just too many cars to deal with, so they're keen to get rid of them asap.

Not sure about silver.... I don't mind it but it's not a preferred colour. I did really like the white - but not sure if I will go for it again. Really wish Golfs came in a better range of colours!

[nicandlance]

Glad to hear it was a write off nicandlance. I've only got about 20 or so dents to my car so I doubt it will be a write off although I pray it is... Getting assessed this monday...

Good luck Rufus! Where are the dents? I think it makes a big difference if there are a lot on the roof. Mine had about 50-70 and they were also on the sides of the roof above the doors.

The damage was pretty bad - I can't imagine how much worse it would have been if we hadn't been out there with blankets and quilts (in a futile effort to protect the car).

It's a sickening feeling - particularly when it's easy to get passionate about your car!!!

Hopefully there are enough in yours to write it off... yours wasn't much newer than mine was it?

[roy]

my 2cents of thought..silver looks dusty after a while...

[Corey_R]

Well, whatever your thoughts about silver, judging by the Colour choices...GTI specific ? thread (http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/newforum/upload/showthread.php?t=42253&page=4) it is BY FAR the least popular colour - so at least you'd be a bit more unique!? lol

[elisiX]

I dont mind the silver on the GTI (with 18' wheels).

Saw a stunning red GTI the other day in the bright sunlight and its blinding - in a good way :D

Congrats on the write off nicandlance.

[nicandlance]

Yes I like the red on the GTI - it's a bright snappy red, but not too keen on the tsi red... it's a bit browny looking. Not sure if I like it at all.

[Corey_R]

Tornado red looks better in real life than in photos. It always turns orange in photos.

I don't mind the TSI red, cause it's not meant to be the Tornado red ;)

[JAYDEE]

I dont mind the silver on the GTI (with 18' wheels).

Saw a stunning red GTI the other day in the bright sunlight and its blinding - in a good way :D

Couldn't agree more.:banana:

[Spook]

Just don't grab a hammer and start creating your own dents. The assessors can tell the difference. I recall reading this story about a person who got caught out after one of the Sydney hail storms. He had dents on the sides of his car as well as the bonnet and roof. Which would have been just fine, as long as hail travel sideways.

On a different note, if I am looking to buy a new car in Melbourne right now, I would be nervous as to whether the car I am getting is brand spanking new or repaired by the dealer. The below article (http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/About_us/News_and_events/Media_releases/2007_media_releases/20070131fairtradingvictoryinhaildamagecase.html) from the NSW Dept of Fair Trading may give some comfort, though I'm not sure if Victoria has the same protection.


Fair Trading victory in hail damage case
31 January 2007

Fair Trading Minister, Diane Beamer, said today consumers were the winners in the final chapter of a long and protracted investigation by Fair Trading into the conduct of Purnell Motors Pty Ltd.

The Supreme Court handed down its decision confirming the disciplinary action taken by the Commissioner for Fair Trading against Purnell’s for not advising customers who had purchased new cars that the cars had been damaged by hail and repaired.

“I am thrilled that finally the 19 purchasers of the damaged vehicles will be compensated with amounts varying from $5,327 to $7,311 each, a total of $114,695,” Ms Beamer said.

In December 2004, a hailstorm struck the Arncliffe area and caused hail damage to a number of new and demonstrator Volvo and Land Rover motor vehicles at the Purnell Motors car dealership in Arncliffe.

“Purnell’s repaired the damaged vehicles and then sold a number of them but failed to tell the customers of the damage,” Ms Beamer said.

“This is in breach of the Motor Dealers Act which obliges a dealer when advertising a new motor vehicle to declare certain types of damage and to advise customers of the damage before purchase.

Investigators from Fair Trading also found the dealer had not complied with other provisions of the Motor Dealers Act and the Fair Trading Act in a number of areas.

“Purnell’s advertised a number of vehicles that had already been sold and some vehicles were advertised at a price lower than the price the consumer paid,” Ms Beamer said.

Fair Trading also found that two customers were offered an inducement of a higher trade-in price for their own vehicles if they had their cars’ log books stamped, which meant that they were being asked to provide a false vehicle history.
Fair Trading sought compensation for the consumers based on the insurance claim lodged by Purnell’s and imposed a number of conditions on the company’s future conduct.

The dealer appealed the Commissioner’s Determination to the Supreme Court but yesterday the Court handed down its decision dismissing Purnell’s application.

“This result was a win for the customers of Purnell Motors and also sends a clear warning to other dealers to comply with the legislation and not to mislead customers.”

[nicandlance]

Im acually hoping they give me one thats on the way here. Then I wont have to worry about that :-)

[nicandlance]

Just found out my Golf will be sold at Pickles Auctions (apparently all AAMI vehicles go there). They start auctioning off the cars from the 31st of March (my car is not listed there yet).
Wonder what it will go for? :confused:

[Dubya]

Thanks Dubya, Going down to AAMI today with all the paperwork for the car. Hoping to get the ball rolling as soon as possible because of the long wait I expect to be in for.
As far as I know, keeping the car was not an option. Perhaps there's just too many cars to deal with, so they're keen to get rid of them asap.

Not sure about silver.... I don't mind it but it's not a preferred colour. I did really like the white - but not sure if I will go for it again. Really wish Golfs came in a better range of colours!

I've had mostly white cars in the past myself.

Two years ago I had a white GT TDI on order which I canceled (it fell into the hands of a grateful member of this forum who was after what was a rare manual with 'roof and in white) before Mrs Dubya steered us into Der Silber Schnellzug (which in bright sunlight can sometimes be mistaken for white).

To her credit, apart from being a great drive (I did not expect her to allow me to purchase let alone insist I do so!), if we neglect the chamois, silver embarrasses us a lot less than any other colour of which I can think.

But white is nice, naturally . . . especially when it is gleaming . . .

Cheers

[SpeedBird]

Just found out my Golf will be sold at Pickles Auctions (apparently all AAMI vehicles go there). They start auctioning off the cars from the 31st of March (my car is not listed there yet).
Wonder what it will go for? :confused:

Follow it thru, everyone here is keen to know, then you know how much your written off car sold for, knowing that, you can work out the rough repair bill for it. That way the damage ' might ' exceeded the value of the 1 month old car.

[nicandlance]

Follow it thru, everyone here is keen to know, then you know how much your written off car sold for, knowing that, you can work out the rough repair bill for it. That way the damage ' might ' exceeded the value of the 1 month old car.

Just curious more than anything. Now it's been written off, it doesn't affect me either way.
New one on the way - they are supposed to call me next week sometime to discuss all the details. (Hopefully I might score one with something extra that I didn't have before!) :cool:

[trueman]

Tornado red looks better in real life than in photos. It always turns orange in photos.

I don't mind the TSI red, cause it's not meant to be the Tornado red ;)
Except for the vwa brochure all the TR look orange in photos. However in the "flesh" they look great even with 17" denvers haha

[Corey_R]

Yeah - but in brochures they have 'special lighting' and photoshop colour correction etc! I mean, just look at the German brochure of the Golf R. The blue looks nothing like the real life rising blue (based on photos from motorshows, lol). Actually, I'd say that some of the shots from the German brochure look more like a painting than a photo!

[Dubya]

Yeah - but in brochures they have 'special lighting' and photoshop colour correction etc! I mean, just look at the German brochure of the Golf R. The blue looks nothing like the real life rising blue (based on photos from motorshows, lol).

"real life" in a photo? As opposed to "in the flesh" I suppose.

But how do know which photo is truer unless you've seen the colour in the flesh (aka "real life")?

[mr gee]

I like this so much, using it for my desktop wallpaper
http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/03/162009markvigolfgti-1.jpg

[nicandlance]

Very nice.... wish the tsi came in the same red....

[Corey_R]

"real life" in a photo? As opposed to "in the flesh" I suppose.

But how do know which photo is truer unless you've seen the colour in the flesh (aka "real life")?

hehe - have you SEEN the Germany Golf R page and brochure?
I've taken this 'photo' from it:
http://members.iinet.net.au/~coreying/VW/GolfRBrochure.jpg


And compare it to this....
http://cache-06.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/12/2009/09/800x600_2009_09_16_Volkswagen_Golf_R_45.jpg


Now I understand full well about differences in lighting conditions, colour calibration differences between cameras, print, and monitors etc, but I don't think there is much argument between which is the 'heavily photoshopped' marketing photo and which is the 'real life' photo between those two :D

[nicandlance]

Both nice :-)

[G-rig]

Yeah. Nothing wrong with the 2nd one!

[trueman]

Im acually hoping they give me one thats on the way here. Then I wont have to worry about that :-)

Maybe you will get one with a DSG ewwwwwwwwww!!!

[nicandlance]

Ha ha! Thanks but no thanks......
They have to replace it with one the same, or to my satisfaction....

(and as for hitting my car with a hammer...
No need for that. The hail did enough damage without my help!)

By the way Trueman, nice car you have lined up...... it will be worth the wait!

[nicandlance]

Would be nice if AAMI could only find me one of these....... sigh......:rolleyes:

[Corey_R]

Yeah. Nothing wrong with the 2nd one!

Yeah - but my point was in response to a question about whether you could really tell which one was the more accurate 'photo'. In my opinion the top one isn't a photo at all (or is a heavily photoshopped/retouched composition of multiple photos made to look very artistic and not-of-this world).

[G-rig]

Agree, they shouldn't make it too unrealistic/enhanced in the brochures.. but most photos you see (ameture ones and different peoples cars) the colours all vary wildly depending on the camera/shot.

[triode12]

Yeah - but my point was in response to a question about whether you could really tell which one was the more accurate 'photo'. In my opinion the top one isn't a photo at all (or is a heavily photoshopped/retouched composition of multiple photos made to look very artistic and not-of-this world).

I agree wholeheartedly, what passes as photography today really isn't.

[Corey_R]

Agree, they shouldn't make it too unrealistic/enhanced in the brochures.. but most photos you see (ameture ones and different peoples cars) the colours all vary wildly depending on the camera/shot.

Totally. The simple fact is that most people don't even know about colour calibration. FWIW though, I do have a Datacolor Spyder available and have my main systems calibrated. Though you're still correct that unless the photographer has a calibrated screen and colour correction profile for their camera, that still doesn't guarantee accuracy. But clearly we're in a better situation looking at these ammature shots (especially from a range of sources) than the 'cartoons' in the VW R brochure :)

[triode12]

Totally. The simple fact is that most people don't even know about colour calibration. FWIW though, I do have a Datacolor Spyder available and have my main systems calibrated. Though you're still correct that unless the photographer has a calibrated screen and colour correction profile for their camera, that still doesn't guarantee accuracy. But clearly we're in a better situation looking at these ammature shots (especially from a range of sources) than the 'cartoons' in the VW R brochure :)

'Amateur' guys not 'ammature'/'ameture' . :P

[Flighter]

As of about an hour ago, my Golf now looks like a golf ball too (from tennis ball sized hailstones I'm told). First some jerk in a car park scrapes it, and now this; all in only 4 months of ownership too. Maybe it will get hit by lightning next.

[hoi polloi]

Ouch... Hope all of this stuff gets fixed up soon..

- Anthony.

[Corey_R]

That's not good news Flighter, sorry to hear that.

On the topic of these threads now, there is now 3 hail damage threads, would anyone be offended if I merge them all?

[MurphyTheElf]

Oh man that sucks. Luckily I got a call from my girlfriend letting me know about the hail in advance - but only two suburbs across. I quickly got into the car and drove to an underground carpark nearby. I've now driven back home (no undercover carport) but the hail part of the storm should be over. I hope.....

[Flighter]

Oh man that sucks. Luckily I got a call from my girlfriend letting me know about the hail in advance - but only two suburbs across. I quickly got into the car and drove to an underground carpark nearby. I've now driven back home (no undercover carport) but the hail part of the storm should be over. I hope.....

That was lucky on your part. I only hope I get as lucky as Nicandlance did, and get a write off. After 4 months of ownership it is surely time to upgrade!

[Guest1306]

That was lucky on your part. I only hope I get as lucky as Nicandlance did, and get a write off. After 4 months of ownership it is surely time to upgrade!

Might be time for that GTI Robert?

[hoi polloi]

Maybe it will get hit by lightning next.

Ha ha ha... Probably will do no damage to it... I remember an episode of Top Gear where Hammond sat inside a Golf (Mk V??) and they simulated a lightning strike in some high voltage test facility - apart from flickering lights on the dashboard during the arc itself nothing exciting happened... When done the car just started first go and was driven off...

Regards,
- Anthony.

[MurphyTheElf]

Might be time for that GTI Robert?

How did your stock fare, Dermot? Although I suppose you won't be 100% sure until tomorrow morning....

[Guest1306]

How did your stock fare, Dermot? Although I suppose you won't be 100% sure until tomorrow morning....

So far just one demo car was damaged, which was out in South Perth at the time. We filled the showroom and workshop before we left tonight as it is due to return, but so far all looks ok thank god. We didnt really get hailstones up north, just wind and rain.

On a side not I am not sure what all the fuss is about, feels like a normal Irish summer to me. :banana:

[Tigger]

Hey guys,
What part of Perth got hit with this hail storm? I am from Perth originally...

[nicandlance]

As of about an hour ago, my Golf now looks like a golf ball too (from tennis ball sized hailstones I'm told). First some jerk in a car park scrapes it, and now this; all in only 4 months of ownership too. Maybe it will get hit by lightning next.

Sounds like my story! Mine was a week old and some stupid mum (whilst waving goodbye to her son), reversed about 2 metres backwards into the front of me. Only a small scratch, but when your car is a week old.... GGGRRRROOOWL!
3 weeks after that, the storm hit....
Bye bye car.

If yours is anywhere near as bad as mine, you'll be in the queue with me for a new one.

Good luck with it all, Nic.

[Tigger]

Hey Flighter,
very sorry to hear about your issues too! hope it all works out well!

Which insurer are you with?

Hey also....nicandlance, have you been given an ETA for your new car yet?

[nicandlance]

Not yet.
I've been told that the woman from AAMI (or someone from her team), that handles 'new for new' should call me by Thursday to let me know what's going on and to let me know what my wait will be.
So far everyone at AAMI has been very helpful. Hope this continues.
It will be interesting to see if there are any tsi's the same as mine in the country, or whether they will have to order another.....
I'm hoping theres one on the ship (due mid April) that I can have.....
Getting two kids off to different schools every day is hard work and I hate having to rely on other people. I know I'd do the same for them, but I don't know how long this is going to go on for. :(

[nicandlance]

How did you go Rufus? Was your assessment yesterday?

[Frankenstrat]

I was *driving* home along the Kwinana Freeway when the hail started coming down at around 4:15pm yesterday. Every overpass I crawled past was fully occupied on both hard shoulders with at least a dozen vehicles, possibly more. The hailstones *I* encountered were quite small, not much larger than an M&M I would guess. The noise though was quite alarming, but I don't appear to have suffered any structural damage to the car.

Crossing Mount Henry Bridge was a wild experience, I couldn't see anything other than the cars around me and it was as if somebody was shaking the bridge quite vigorously. A soggy motorcyclist rode past very slowly, he had both feet out to act as stabilisers so he wouldn't fall over due to the buffeting of the wind.

I feel very sorry for those of you who have suffered hail damage to your cars, my pergola at home had a couple of acrylic panels smashed and my back yard fence had blown over. That's fairly trivial compared with Flighter and NicandLance's misfortune.

[gareth_oau]

they reported 6mm hailstones in melville yesterday.

I understand Audi Perth looks like a belfast war scene!!

I managed to get both my cars into the garage, but we only got rain so no problems

[gareth_oau]

really dermot?

my dad was offerered a management job at Rolls Royce Belfast in 1971.

he decided to move to Perth instead, which maaaay, in hindsight, have proven to be a reasonable decision

[moniker]

they reported 6mm hailstones in melville yesterday.

I understand Audi Perth looks like a belfast war scene!!

I managed to get both my cars into the garage, but we only got rain so no problems

6mm, I'm sure you mean 6 cm!

Reports from the car-yard areas of Osborne Park are not good with severe damage to many new cars.
I'm just lucky my brand new Golf was tucked away under cover yesterday and the other car - a '02 Mazda Tribute copped all the dents :(

I was parked in Osborne Park - we got golf-ball sized hail there...

[R34]

I think I could get a good deal on the A5 Sportback I test drove
http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2010/03/AudiDealership001-1.jpg

What a shame

[Frankenstrat]

Oh, and on a side note, I just wanted to add that the Rain Sensing Wiper function worked spectacularly well last night. From the first heavy >splat< on the windscreen they rose to the task. :)

[gareth_oau]

6mm, I'm sure you mean 6 cm!




hmm, well, yes, 6mm is hardly worth mentioning even in THIS forum LOL

[Coaster]

Luckily I don't drive my Golf to work in Osborne Park. 100+ cars in the office car park were dented all over. A colleagues sun roof shattered and water got inside, another colleagues car broke down in a deep puddle, water filling the foot wells. There are a lot of car dealers in Osborne Park; VW, Audi, Mazda, Subaru, Holden, Toyota, Peugeot, Citreon, Range Rover, all the Italian brands. Must have cost a fortune.

The hail at my office wasn't round, it looked like chunks of ice hacked off a big block! Never seen anything like it. And part of the sky at about 5pm was a strange dark pastel green colour.

It must have been damn scary driving along the freeway when these lumps of ice started cracking peoples windscreens.

[hoi polloi]

The hail at my office wasn't round, it looked like chunks of ice hacked off a big block!

Yeah.. You'll find it's a lot of smaller hailstones frozen together into an irregular mass - saw the same thing in '99...

- Anthony.

[emuexport]

Just put down a deposit on a TSI 118 DSG the other day at VW OP.

As considerable damage from the hail storm was done in the Osborne Park area and lots of cars at dealerships are damaged I received an e-mail this morning which told me it will be two weeks till delivery now and that I will be told what the verdict is when they know.

Now I'm understanding enough to realise they are busy but obviously the car was damaged otherwise I wouldnt receive jack!

Whats the deal if it is damaged? Do they just repair it and say here you go heres your new car? Which isn't really new anymore as it's just been golf-balled.

Obviously jumping to conclusions but I am a bit of a pessimist!

Anyone got an idea on what the possible outcome/approach is going to be?

I had a look and didn't see this anywhere else which surprises me especially after the damage over east.

Cheers,
emu

[hoi polloi]

Just put down a deposit on a TSI 118 DSG the other day at VW OP.

If you're overly concerned about it ask up front whether the car has been damaged (maybe even ask to see it)...

I don't know what the law is in WA but I'm sure there should be a "cooling-off period" in the contract (here in NSW it's 14 days IIRC) during which time you can withdraw without penalty... If you're out of the cooling off period will you lose all of your deposit? Questions to ask...

If you're overly concerned (and it sounds like you are) then maybe getting out of it is the best option...

Regards,
- Anthony.

[Corey_R]

If your car has been damaged prior to delivery and repaired, the dealer must disclose this to you. It's illegal for them not to. There is a link somewhere in this thread about a dealer in Sydney that had a class action lawsuit against them for that very reason, and the ACCC came down on them hard.

[emuexport]

Thanks for the info guys.

If you're overly concerned about it ask up front whether the car has been damaged (maybe even ask to see it)...

I don't know what the law is in WA but I'm sure there should be a "cooling-off period" in the contract (here in NSW it's 14 days IIRC) during which time you can withdraw without penalty... If you're out of the cooling off period will you lose all of your deposit? Questions to ask...

If you're overly concerned (and it sounds like you are) then maybe getting out of it is the best option...

Regards,
- Anthony.
I've asked already about the condition of the car basically as soon as I got sent the e-mail.

There is no cooling off period as stated in the contract and I didnt have an issue with it as the car was right on the shop floor. Lesson learnt there.

Will see what happens in the coming days.


If your car has been damaged prior to delivery and repaired, the dealer must disclose this to you. It's illegal for them not to. There is a link somewhere in this thread about a dealer in Sydney that had a class action lawsuit against them for that very reason, and the ACCC came down on them hard.

Not so much worried about them not disclosing it but forcing me to buy a car which has already been repaired. Which in my mind is no longer new and I may as well wait for a new one to arrive.
Do I still have to buy the car if it has been repaired?

I am concerned. I just dont enjoy being a mushroom when it's my dosh and would like to know whats gonna happen as opposed to being told.:rolleyes:

The wife tells me to just chill out and not worry. So might go have a drink! :D

[hoi polloi]

There is no cooling off period as stated in the contract and I didnt have an issue with it as the car was right on the shop floor.

Ouch.. According to this (http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/ConsumerProtection/Content/Motor_Vehicles/Buying_and_selling/Buying_a_vehicle/Vehicle_contracts_and_terms_of.html)there is no cooling off period in WA...

If this is the case find out what you're up for if you pull out of the deal - weigh up the pros and cons when you find out the damage to the vehicle (the delay may be due to it being assessed by insurance)...

Regards,
- Anthony.

[R34]

I was at the Audi dealership today and while their cars were trashed they said only two cars were damaged at the Subaru/VW dealership less than a km away.
So chances are your car is OK..fingers crossed

[emuexport]

yup..... :(

Also states:
"8.2 If this Contract is validly terminated by the Dealer, the Dealer may seek an amount up to, but not exceeding, 15% of the Total Purchase Price of the Vehicle as pre-estimated liquidated damages."

The delay is due to it being assessed. I feel bad for the dealers as some of the cars really copped it from what I saw today.

I just want a fully sick smick VeeDub!

[emuexport]

I was at the Audi dealership today and while their cars were trashed they said only two cars were damaged at the Subaru/VW dealership less than a km away.
So chances are your car is OK..fingers crossed

Thanks for the info. I did a drive by to check out some of the damage on scarborough beach road and Holden looked wrecked from memory. Lexus looked showroom and VW had the cars with the arse to the road. So who knows fingers crossed indeed.

[gareth_oau]

emu, a 'cooling off' clause wouldnt be relevant here. cooling off clauses are typically to stop people from impulse buying from door-to-door salesmen.

however, you have signed a contract to buy a car, and if the car is damaged prior to delivery, then the dealer must advise you, and the dealer must supply you with a new one, or you would have the right to terminate with a full refund.

contact this mob to get further confirmation of your rights

http://www.docep.wa.gov.au/ConsumerProtection/

[Tigger]

wow...what an ordeal for you all!
Very sorry to hear about it all. I am a perth boy now living in sydney, and can not ever remember such a serious hail storm situation.

So is this the time to go into the paintless dent removal business or panel beater business??!!!

I know a miracle worker of a guy here in Sydney (Dents R us). He has done work for us and is amazing at removing all sorts of dents. Might be worth contacting him to fly over...ha ha.

All the best guys...and as far as going through with the purchase if your car has been damaged: lose the deposit and save the worry...

[nicandlance]

Thanks for the info guys.

I've asked already about the condition of the car basically as soon as I got sent the e-mail.

There is no cooling off period as stated in the contract and I didnt have an issue with it as the car was right on the shop floor. Lesson learnt there.

Will see what happens in the coming days.



Not so much worried about them not disclosing it but forcing me to buy a car which has already been repaired. Which in my mind is no longer new and I may as well wait for a new one to arrive.
Do I still have to buy the car if it has been repaired?

I am concerned. I just dont enjoy being a mushroom when it's my dosh and would like to know whats gonna happen as opposed to being told.:rolleyes:

The wife tells me to just chill out and not worry. So might go have a drink! :D



I would go down (unannounced) and ask to see the car... before they get the opportunity to repair it. If it is damaged, it is not the car you put a deposit on.
Having said that, if you decide not to go through with the sale there should be no issue - you should get your deposit back! I'm with Gareth... cooling off period not relevant in this case.

[emuexport]

Thanks again guys for all the info.

Might have to drop in and check it for myself after calling DOCEP.

My thoughts are I put a deposit on a new car and if it is now damaged the term new no longer applies. But will check what DOCEP have to say.

[nicandlance]

You are not getting what you put a deposit on if the car is damaged and then repaired.....
Try not to stress about it (yep... good coming from me after all the worry I had :confused:)

[hoi polloi]

a 'cooling off' clause wouldnt be relevant here.

You're right, of course... While not strictly "cooling off" as such (as others have mentioned the vehicle is not in the same condition as when you laid down the deposit)...

The only reason I mentioned cooling off if that if it applies it gives you the opportunity to walk away and have all money returned without having to give any reason or enter into any debate...

Regards,
- Anthony

[Frankenstrat]

I was putting my bag in the boot of the car this morning following my regular swim and noticed a single tiny dent in the roof of my car from hail stone damage. Not quite enough to consider the car a write-off though but enough to irritate me every time I wash it!

[Corey_R]

I was putting my bag in the boot of the car this morning following my regular swim and noticed a single tiny dent in the roof of my car from hail stone damage. Not quite enough to consider the car a write-off though but enough to irritate me every time I wash it!

Lol - that's a bit dramatic ain't it ?
I understand your frustration for it being a new car and all, but a single dint would cost less than $100 to repair via a paintless dent removal. Obviously that is a few hundred dents away from being considered a write off!

It's so minor it's not even worth an insurance claim! :)

[nicandlance]

Lol - that's a bit dramatic ain't it ?
I understand your frustration for it being a new car and all, but a single dint would cost less than $100 to repair via a paintless dent removal. Obviously that is a few hundred dents away from being considered a write off!

It's so minor it's not even worth an insurance claim! :)

I think Frankenstrat was being tongue in cheek when he mentioned write off lol!
But I can certainly relate to spotting your first dent or scratch - before that hail I was miffed about some stupid thoughtless woman reversing into my week old car....
3 weeks later and that little scratch was irrelevant :(

[hoi polloi]

The last time I replaced a dent (from a Golf Ball) cost me the grand sum of $66. It was easy to get to the inside of it though as it was in the bonnet...

- Anthony.

[Frankenstrat]

I think Frankenstrat was being tongue in cheek when he mentioned write off lol!
Guilty as charged, Your Honour!

I must see who can do a paintless dent removal here in Perth (or Rockingham where I work). Thanks Coreying, I appreciate the heads up.

[nicandlance]

By the way, Speedbird asked me whether this was my car at Pickles Car Auctions... indeed it is, but they have listed it as a 90tsi (it's a 118tsi with Sport Pack), and the pics don't show up the full extent of damage....

Somebody might get a good deal!

www.pickles.com.au/damaged/vehicle/CP-01-10-Volkswagen-Golf-VI-MY10-90TSI-Trendline-Hatchback-5-Seats-5-Doors/itemid-1-252169011/lotid-0

[MurphyTheElf]

Oooh - what about the R36 (http://www.pickles.com.au/damaged/vehicle/CP-07-09-Volkswagen-Passat-Type-3C-MY09-R36-DSG-4-Motion-Sedan-5-Seats-4-Doors/itemid-1-252168996/lotid-0) they have listed? :rolleyes:

[Golfitup]

Just put down a deposit on a TSI 118 DSG the other day at VW OP.

As considerable damage from the hail storm was done in the Osborne Park area and lots of cars at dealerships are damaged I received an e-mail this morning which told me it will be two weeks till delivery now and that I will be told what the verdict is when they know.

Now I'm understanding enough to realise they are busy but obviously the car was damaged otherwise I wouldnt receive jack!

Whats the deal if it is damaged? Do they just repair it and say here you go heres your new car? Which isn't really new anymore as it's just been golf-balled.

Obviously jumping to conclusions but I am a bit of a pessimist!

Anyone got an idea on what the possible outcome/approach is going to be?

I had a look and didn't see this anywhere else which surprises me especially after the damage over east.

Cheers,
emu

In Victoria the Trade Practices Act would cover this. From memory s71 deals with merchantable quality. In essence (provided this is not a purchase for business use) the car must be merchantable quality. For example, if you went to a car yard and they had hail damaged cars and they sold you a car at a discounted rate because of the damage, then it is merchantable in the circumstances.

If you purchase a new car and paid a price reflecting this, then you were provided with a hail damaged car (regardless of repair) you would argue that the car is not merchantable quality in the circumstances.

I am not sure what similar laws would apply in WA, but as already stated I would want to confirm that the car was not damaged and repaired before taking delivery. I vaguely remember a case where a new car was purchased and there was some damage done prior to delivery. The dealer repaired it. It was later discovered (some time later) and it was argued that it was not a new vehicle. This argument failed as the car had no prior owner and therefore was a new vehicle. The argument should have been that the car was not merchantable quality.

Note: this is from a vague memory so don't take this as advice by any means, I just hope it helps you on the right path.

good luck and GOLF IT UP!

[Flighter]

I think Frankenstrat was being tongue in cheek when he mentioned write off lol!
But I can certainly relate to spotting your first dent or scratch - before that hail I was miffed about some stupid thoughtless woman reversing into my week old car....
3 weeks later and that little scratch was irrelevant :(

Oh boy, you are so right! My wife was so upset at the scratches we got by week 10, but compared to the hail damage, I'd love to have it back in its former condition!

Thanks for the PM too Nic.

[Guest1306]

Oh boy, you are so right! My wife was so upset at the scratches we got by week 10, but compared to the hail damage, I'd love to have it back in its former condition!

Thanks for the PM too Nic.

Just keep praying to the Insurance Gods! :drink:

[Cheshire Cat]

Just put down a deposit on a TSI 118 DSG the other day at VW OP.

As considerable damage from the hail storm was done in the Osborne Park area and lots of cars at dealerships are damaged I received an e-mail this morning which told me it will be two weeks till delivery now and that I will be told what the verdict is when they know.

Now I'm understanding enough to realise they are busy but obviously the car was damaged otherwise I wouldnt receive jack!

Whats the deal if it is damaged? Do they just repair it and say here you go heres your new car? Which isn't really new anymore as it's just been golf-balled.

Obviously jumping to conclusions but I am a bit of a pessimist!

Anyone got an idea on what the possible outcome/approach is going to be?

I had a look and didn't see this anywhere else which surprises me especially after the damage over east.

Cheers,
emu

EmuExport,

My wife is in exactly the same position, same dealer, the car was prepped ready for delivery, and then the hail came!!

Can you give me a call 041 709 3497 ASAP - as two of us working together is going to be better than acting alone.

Key issues:

- our salesman has been cagey, wouldn't confirm "our" car had been damaged, and has sent an email saying they'll get back to us after the insurance assessor has had a look (why would they want to look at an undamaged car?!). I think he has been primed by the insurer / lawyer as to what he should and shouldn't say, as he seems to have studiously avoided saying "we'll get back to you after its been repaired". I suspect he knows he's on the backfoot if he admits that (see the Options below - and my comment that you should locate "your" car and get photos, and make sure the dealer knows that you know...and have photos to prove - its damaged);

- based on my look around the front yard of the OP dealer, and at the holding yard, this morning - it seems materially ALL are damaged, not "a small percentage" as per the dealer's email

- get yourself down to the holding yard (AND TAKE A CAMERA!) at the back of Lynford Ford dealership in OP (further along ScaBchRd, under the freeway, on the left), as thats where they have been moving them this morning - said to be so can be assessed by insurer (again, they have studiously avoided saying "and repaired"!!). I had a nose around both this morning, as couldn't get a straight answer to "was it damaged?" from our salesman (so, like you, assumed it HAD been) and was concerned about the extent of the damage - and therefore the extent of the repair required.

- Can drive into the Lynford yard in working hours (easier going around the back - turn left 2 buildings after Lynford's and follow the service road around), no-one questions you. Look around for the colour / spec of "your" car. Handy if you know the stock number. Amber, the stockcontroller / receptionist at the dealer, might give it to you. The Stock Number sticker is on the bottom corner driver-side of the windscreen. The VWs (are also other brands) are all parked together, plus a few round the back of the car-wash shed, towards the very back on the left (as you're looking out at the service road).

- Some are pretty badly dented, some (incl "ours") aren't so bad.

- If you can't find "your car", ask for Ian in the big shed at the back (where they prep the cars for delivery, you'll know it when you see it) - he seems to be the supervisor of that area, was very helpful and honest, incl looking up the Stock Number against my name and going with me to find it (confirmed for me that the only one in "our" colour in the yard, that I had already found, was in fact "ours").

- In terms of repairabilty he though the PaintlessDingRepair man would fix it up easily and well - however he did comment that the top coat of paint ("gel coat"? can't recall the words he used) is often compromised, but "we polish that up" (thats a BIG "however" and very very useful when it comes to whether the car is "new" anymore!)

- I have spoken to a very good contact in the trade (big dealership, works on pre-delivery so knows all about the situation with ding repairs / damaged stock). He said we are in a good position esp as we can show the current vehicle is damaged (something the dealer seems keen to never admit). My contact said our options were

1) dealer fixes the dings, looks good, you're happy, take delivery

2) they fix it, you don't want a "damage-repair" as its not 'new', decline delivery (even if the repair looks good), tell them you want a new one. As you say, worth calling DOCEP and RAC beforhand so can quote to the dealer what they said, as I don't think the dealer will take this lyig down (BTW I'd suggest getting hold of the Stock Number and VIN number of the current "your" car, to make sure they don't try to blindside you and pass the same car off as "another one"). I don't know what the delivery times / locations are on getting another one - from over East, or Germany?. I note that the standard contract shows they deal is off if they can't deliver within 3 months.

3) Interstingly, my contact said the dealers are covered not just for damage repair but also loss of value in having to sell off these "damage-repair" cars. It seems to me, from what he was saying, that if we don't take delivery, the dealer will have to flog it off into the market, presumably masking its history by selling as "ex-demo" (and at a discount)? So my contact suggested a buyer could go in VERY HARD for a renegotiated price on the car. My contact reckoned the dealer loses nothing, as covered by insurance, so could be keen on a deal (after checking with the insurer, presumably?). Again, I suspect this option would have to be pulled out of the dealer with a crow-bar...

Our car is for my wife, who emotionally wants a "new car" (never driven, perfect etc) and she wants Option 2.

Personally I'd think a minimum of $4k (ie 10%), and probably $5k, would be necessary for me (if the car was for me, which it isn't...so just a hypothetical!) to take on the current car, even if the repair was immaculate.

Anyway, give me a call.

[Transporter]

Well, if I would be expecting the delivery of the new car that was in OZ when we had the hails I would be arming myself with something similar to this: http://www.autopaintgauge.com.au/ and had my eyes really peeled when before paying for the car!

Also remember that the cars can be shifted to other states! :eek:

[nicandlance]

Latest is that AAMI are going to give me a cash settlement for my tsi, and I should have that by next week.
Now to start the bargaining all over again!

[triode12]

Latest is that AAMI are going to give me a cash settlement for my tsi, and I should have that by next week.
Now to start the bargaining all over again!

In light of the engine issues with 118tsi's and the MKVI rattles, I'd be inclined to look at 2nd hand MKV GTs/GTsports instead.

[nicandlance]

In light of the engine issues with 118tsi's and the MKVI rattles, I'd be inclined to look at 2nd hand MKV GTs/GTsports instead.

Oh....... Don't do that to me!!!!! :(

[franjae]

Nic,

Can I ask how extensive the damage was? Like you said the car looks ok in the pictures.

[pologti18t]

Don't most insurance want to know a car has been hail damaged/repair?

It could quite easily void any future claims if you don't declare it!

My advice - don't accept the car until you find out from your insurance company what the deal is with insuring hail damaged cars. If it has been damaged then the dealer should be offering you the option to cancel the order or be given a significant discount.

[franjae]

Those of you who had insurance payout, how was it assessed and can the insurance co. try and get out of paying and what if it was declared a natural disaster? Will this change anything?? Thanks!

[nicandlance]

Those of you who had insurance payout, how was it assessed and can the insurance co. try and get out of paying and what if it was declared a natural disaster? Will this change anything?? Thanks!

The damage and how my car was assessed is within this thread. Read back a few pages - it's all there.
AAMI agreed to pay me out today - should receive it early next week.

[franjae]

Doh!....I starting reading from the Perth pages and forgot the thread started a while ago!!! Sorry...

Good to hear a cheque's coming Nic!

[pologti18t]

The damage and how my car was assessed is within this thread. Read back a few pages - it's all there.
AAMI agreed to pay me out today - should receive it early next week.


Does that imply they are unable to source a car in a suitable amount of time? Do they refund the outstanding balance of your insurance premium?

[Flighter]

Latest is that AAMI are going to give me a cash settlement for my tsi, and I should have that by next week.
Now to start the bargaining all over again!

Uhhhh, aren't they supposed to simply supply you one "new for old"? Why should it be incumbent on you to secure another car, possibly at a greater cost to you than your insurance excess payment?

[Corey_R]

Because there are none in the country and it would be a 'to order' car from the factory. Insurance companies don't have any other method for obtaining a car than what we do.

[Flighter]

Because there are none in the country and it would be a 'to order' car from the factory. Insurance companies don't have any other method for obtaining a car than what we do.

I understand that, but if Nic (and hopefully me) is prepared to wait for new VW (as opposed to buying a more readily available brand) what the difference who makes the payment? I'd be pretty annoyed if after receiving a cheque I discovered I was up for more than my insurance payment was supposed to cover. Insurance is supposed to protect us from financial loss after all.

[markwid]

I understand that, but if Nic (and hopefully me) is prepared to wait for new VW (as opposed to buying a more readily available brand) what the difference who makes the payment? I'd be pretty annoyed if after receiving a cheque I discovered I was up for more than my insurance payment was supposed to cover. Insurance is supposed to protect us from financial loss after all.

On the other hand, with money in hand, you have more options open to you. You could buy something else; upgrade/downgrade, new/used, etc...

[Flighter]

On the other hand, with money in hand, you have more options open to you. You could buy something else; upgrade/downgrade, new/used, etc...

I don't object to more money in hand, but you have to wonder how likely is that?

[Corey_R]

I understand that, but if Nic (and hopefully me) is prepared to wait for new VW (as opposed to buying a more readily available brand) what the difference who makes the payment? I'd be pretty annoyed if after receiving a cheque I discovered I was up for more than my insurance payment was supposed to cover. Insurance is supposed to protect us from financial loss after all.

Actually - insurance has never covered 'financial loss' per se - that is why there is 'gap cover'. But I get the gist of what you're saying :)

[Flighter]

Actually - insurance has never covered 'financial loss' per se - that is why there is 'gap cover'. But I get the gist of what you're saying :)

Perhaps I'm naive, but when I read my policy and it says "new for old, including 12 months rego etc", I take it to mean they'll take my write off and give me a brand spanking new one (less the excess), or sufficient cash to achieve the same end - nothing more, nothing less.

[Corey_R]

This is from the NRMA Comprehensive Plus PDS:

New replacement vehicle
If your vehicle is considered by us to be a total loss and we agree to pay your claim, you can choose to have your vehicle replaced, if:

you have bought your vehicle new, or you purchased a demonstrator vehicle, and
the vehicle is in the first 24 months of its registration at the time of the incident, and
a replacement vehicle is available in Australia which is of the same make, model, engine size, equipment level and paint type, and
we have agreement from any credit provider noted on your current Certificate of Insurance – if applicable, and
the vehicle has a tare weight of less than 2.5 tonnes.


we will:
replace your vehicle with a vehicle of the same make, model, engine size, equipment level and paint type,
replace any modifications, options or accessories,
pay the first 12 months registration and Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance, if applicable, on the replacement vehicle.


you need to:

pay us any:
excess that applies,
outstanding premium, including the balance of all monthly instalments,
refund you receive from the registration and CTP Insurance over your vehicle.


If your vehicle is replaced:

your Policy comes to an end and no refund of premium is due, and
your vehicle becomes our property.



I would say similar conditions are in most people's policies.

[markwid]

I don't object to more money in hand, but you have to wonder how likely is that?

Who said more money? I said more options...

[nicandlance]

Burwin told me that if they can't source a car within Australia, I could be in for a wait of 6 months.
AAMI told me that they were in no better position to source a car than I was, and asked whether I'd prefer to be paid out.
I was a little concerned about them sourcing a vehicle that is already here (in case it happens to be one that has been damaged and repaired), I think I'd much rather have one that's on the way. Will just have to take my chances and see....
I have contacted two dealers to see what they can do for me. The dealer I bought it from told me he could do exactly the same as what I had before - minus the cost of the mats because I took them out of the other car (if there is one available of course).
I'm in a catch 22, but at least one step closer to replacing the one I had.

[Corey_R]

Yeah Nic, I think you're doing the right thing here. I'd too be worried about some dealers doing switches to cars etc and ending up with a repaired car unaware.

[Tigger]

I agree with coreying,

We will probably see a bit of intertstate car swapping over the next few months. Prob will be some "great specials" on new vehicles etc... throughout the land!

Dont want to buy one like that!

[markwid]

Yeah Nic, I think you're doing the right thing here. I'd too be worried about some dealers doing switches to cars etc and ending up with a repaired car unaware.

I think so too...be good to order one that is already on the ship to here.

The contrarian approach will be to be entirely aware that there are big discounts to be had for new cars in the holding yard that were not severely hail damaged and can be repaired to "good as new".

[nicandlance]

Dealer emailed me to say he has a black 118tsi with sport pack and mdi (due for delivery 14th - 15th April), and to drop in and see him because he might have good news for me...
(He knows I drive a hard bargain and have done all my homework, so he's aware that I'm not prepared to pay more than what I got back from AAMI).
Planning to see him today - will keep you posted!

[Corey_R]

Good luck!

[SpeedBird]

Dealer emailed me to say he has a black 118tsi with sport pack and mdi (due for delivery 14th - 15th April), and to drop in and see him because he might have good news for me...
(He knows I drive a hard bargain and have done all my homework, so he's aware that I'm not prepared to pay more than what I got back from AAMI).
Planning to see him today - will keep you posted!

You should get a better deal this time, you have NO trade in, you have the price you paid last time, so this one should be equal or even cheaper, not many people buy 2 new cars in a short time frame. Plus you have the prices of what others have asked for and got on here.

[nicandlance]

Hooray - deal done!!!!

New Golf on the way, and no long wait to endure.

Put the deposit on a black 118tsi with Sport pack and mdi - metallic paint and mdi included for the same price as I got my previous car for. Very happy.

Arrives in Melbourne tomorrow - delivery around 2 weeks after that....phew!

Thanks everyone for your help and advice, and good luck to everyone else going through the same thing.

Maybe it's this weekend I should invest in a tattslotto ticket?

[Tux]

What a great ending to your story Nic, after the heartache and worry that you've been through. It's been interesting reading..

[markwid]

Hooray - deal done!!!!
Arrives in Melbourne tomorrow - delivery around 2 weeks after that....phew!


Yeah...well done! You got what you wanted - new car arriving by ship soon with no worries that is has been thru hail damage.

[pologti18t]

Excellent result.... is it a 2010 build?

[nicandlance]

Yes! Even better!

[pologti18t]

Yes! Even better!
Now thats a bonus!

[Tigger]

Wow guys!!! that is great news.


What an ordeal. I hope that it all goes well. Thanks for sharing the progress with us all too. Please let us know how things go with the new one.

Looking forward to seeing pics. Oh and very happy you guys stayed in the VW fold and didnt go on to something else.

Enjoy the new black beauty.

[Tigger]

Hey...just thought, you will have to update your sign-off to show the new one's specs....

[nicandlance]

Done!! :jackinthebox:

[Tigger]

Very good guys!

You will the black!

[nicandlance]

Now to think about whether it's worth getting paint protection for the black... thread search here I go...

[Christopher]

I think you'll find out th general consensus pretty quickly - 3M or equivalent is the way to go.
Well done on th outcome though. It's funny as you'll have received two cars before most here have even receved one (me incl'd). Haha. But yes, tatts ticket is a must.

[nicandlance]

I know this is an off thread topic, but is that (3M), equivalent to the paint protection the after sales girl tries to flog at the dealership for almost $900?

[Corey_R]

No - the 'paint protection' that the sales girl tries to flog you is usually no more than some fancy polish, which gets washed off by most car washes.

3M Paint Protection / Ventureshield StoneGuard is kinda like an advanced clear contact for books - except it's for your car! It's about .3mm thick, made of mylar. It'll even protect your paint from minor car accidents. Sure, you'll probably need some panel beating, but your paint will still be intact and won't require a respray!

[emuexport]

No - the 'paint protection' that the sales girl tries to flog you is usually no more than some fancy polish, which gets washed off by most car washes.

3M Paint Protection / Ventureshield StoneGuard is kinda like an advanced clear contact for books - except it's for your car! It's about .3mm thick, made of mylar. It'll even protect your paint from minor car accidents. Sure, you'll probably need some panel beating, but your paint will still be intact and won't require a respray!
Nic

^^^^^WHS^^^^^ :D

I will be getting ventureshield (3M-film) put on the car when it arrives. I put some on my motorbike which I crashed the other day and it has scratched the film and protected the panels (not all but considerably). On motorbikes the front forks get alot of stone ships so I put film on these and you can see it hasnt gone through to the paint.

For what its worth my 3M installer suggested to do the whole bonnet not just the leading edge as some of his earlier customers were getting stone ships quite high up the bonnet. Just a thought.

Dont feed the MING troll! :D Just wax it or get it detailed by a pro who loves what they do.

Heres a link (http://www.pgc.com.au/category/stonechip-protection/) to the guy I will be using. You cant see the film in his photos. But if you look closely in person and know what you are looking for you will see it just.

Ventureshield (http://ventureshield.com/) now owned by 3M.

Back OT my replacement car is on the boat and will be here in a couple of months so fingers crossed. Guess my spec is pretty popular/generic to have one available!

[nicandlance]

Does it cost anything like what the dealership ask?

[Corey_R]

For what its worth my 3M installer suggested to do the whole bonnet not just the leading edge as some of his earlier customers were getting stone ships quite high up the bonnet. Just a thought.

Great advice :D

[nicandlance]

The girl at the dealership said that that their stuff protects from swirl marks and means that you don't have to wax and polish.....thoughts?

Also, does 3M cost anything like what the dealership ask?

[emuexport]

Hi Nic

The dealership is selling you a wax/synthetic that will wear away with washing your car or rain. though I am no expert (have a search here and you will get some pretty similar thinking). I will be waxing my car myself with the help of some awesome threads here on VWW. At least its a small car and wont take too long.

The 3M film (Ventureshield) I was quoted was about $900 (and thats alot of film) so I guess you could say it was similar in price but performance wise a different league. Hows wax going to stop chips in your paint?
The film is in very simple terms a bit of hi-tech contact if that helps at all.

Not sure how much it would cost over east.

[Corey_R]

Nic - I doubt you'll find a SINGLE knowledgable person who thinks that the dealer offer is worthwhile. It is seriously no more than a fancy polish. The ONLY protection for your paint which is worthwhile is a film based product.

The dealer stuff is 100% useless. I've had it on a few cars, mainly due to me getting almost new 2nd hand cars, and I can honestly say that if it weren't for the information pack in the booklets in the glovebox, you would have no idea from all the swirl marks and stone chips that it had any type of paint treatment.