When a nearly new vehicle is involved in an accident—even a minor one—the impact on its market value can be more severe than expected. For one New Jersey driver, their 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid EX with fewer than 3,000 miles sustained rear-end damage that ultimately led to a significant drop in resale value. That’s where DVAC came in.
Why Diminished Value Matters in New Jersey
New Jersey drivers often assume that their insurance company’s payout is final. But after an accident, vehicles frequently lose resale value, even if they’re fully repaired. This is known as diminished value—and it’s something insurance companies often overlook or undervalue unless you actively claim it.
Although the damage in this case was considered “minor” by the insurer, the visible rear impact and a repair bill totaling $8,829.57 created a clear loss in value due to the vehicle’s now-documented accident history. A CARFAX report flagged the incident, reducing buyer confidence and long-term resale potential.
Vehicle Overview
Make/Model: 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid EX
Location: New Jersey
Accident Type: Rear-end impact (minor damage)
Mileage at time of accident: 2,998 miles
Repair Cost: $8,829.57
Diminished Value Status: Appraised by DVAC
Appraised Diminished Value Amount: $5,100
This high-spec Kia includes advanced driver assistance systems, a premium infotainment setup, and third-row seating. This makes it a strong performer in the minivan segment. But once the accident appeared on its history, its resale appeal dropped.
How DVAC Delivered a Data-Backed Diminished Value Report
After seeing the impact on their vehicle’s value, the owner turned to DVAC for an independent diminished value appraisal. DVAC’s licensed appraisers reviewed:
Repair documentation and body shop photos
Market value data from J.D. Power, Black Book, and Kelley Blue Book
Regional sales activity and VIN-specific comparisons
CARFAX accident history and post-repair status
Using this data, DVAC produced a comprehensive diminished value report that objectively showed the reduction in market value caused by the accident—despite the vehicle’s low mileage and excellent condition.
Why Independent Appraisals Matter for New Jersey Drivers
Insurance companies often minimize diminished value claims—especially when a vehicle is still driveable or appears repaired. But in New Jersey, if your vehicle has sustained any damage, you may be entitled to compensation beyond the cost of repairs.
This is particularly true for late-model vehicles like this 2025 Kia Carnival. An independent appraisal gives you the leverage needed to fight low offers and protect your financial interests.
Protect Your Investment with DVAC
Thanks to DVAC’s quick turnaround and objective analysis, the vehicle owner had the evidence needed to recover thousands in diminished value. With expert appraisers and transparent methodology, DVAC continues to support New Jersey drivers in understanding and asserting their rights after an accident.
Ready to find out how much compensation you might be missing?
Contact DVAC today for an objective, data-backed diminished value appraisal and protect your vehicle’s true worth.
