When an accident damages your vehicle, the financial impact doesn’t end with repairs. Even after a thorough restoration, your car may lose market value simply because of its accident history — a concept known as diminished value. This is especially true for newer vehicles or specialty-use vehicles like commercial vans.
In this case study, we highlight how DVAC helped an Oregon-based owner of a 2021 Dodge ProMaster 2500 High Roof recover their vehicle’s diminished value after a costly accident.
Vehicle Overview
Make/Model: 2021 Dodge ProMaster 2500 High Roof
Location: Oregon
Accident Type: Front-end collision (damage to front, frame, and internal systems)
Mileage at Time of Accident: 43,487 miles
Repair Cost: $38,608.04 (including supplements)
Diminished Value Status: Appraised by DVAC
Appraised Diminished Value Amount: $10,350
This ProMaster was equipped with valuable upgrades including a towing package, fog lights, heated mirrors, premium lighting, and a customized RV-ready interior. The vehicle was professionally restored, but the accident history permanently appeared on its CARFAX report, making it less desirable to potential buyers and reducing its market value.
The Impact of a “Minor” Accident on a Commercial Vehicle
The accident occurred in September 2023 and was officially classified as “minor damage” on the CARFAX report. However, the repair documents told a different story. The collision caused significant structural issues requiring:
Frame machine setup and realignment
New OEM parts for the front end, lights, cooling system, airbag system, and suspension
Sublet work for airbag replacement, steering, and instrument panel repairs
More than 100 individual parts and labor line items
Total repair costs exceeded $38,000 after three supplements. While the repairs returned the van to safe operating condition, the damage history and repair complexity led to a noticeable drop in resale value
Why Diminished Value Still Matters — Even After Repairs
Insurance companies rarely account for diminished value unless you push for it. This is especially important for commercial or specialty vehicles like the ProMaster. Even minor reports can raise red flags for buyers or dealerships.
A CARFAX report showing accident history automatically reduces confidence and value — even if repairs were handled by certified shops using OEM parts. Without a proper diminished value appraisal, owners often absorb this loss without realizing they have a right to compensation.
How DVAC Delivered a Fair, Data-Backed Appraisal
The owner contacted DVAC to determine how much value the vehicle had lost because of the accident. Our licensed appraisers reviewed the full repair order, VIN-specific data, mileage, condition, and retail valuations from:
J.D. Power Commercial Truck Values
Kelley Blue Book
Black Book
MMR (Manheim Market Report)
CARFAX History + CARFAX Market Report integration
Based on this research, DVAC issued a detailed, objective diminished value report that quantified the loss in market value. This report empowered the owner to present a strong case to the insurer or use the report when selling or trading in the vehicle
Why Diminished Value Claims Matter in Oregon
Oregon law does not automatically include diminished value in settlement offers. However, if you provide credible documentation and valuation, insurers may be obligated to consider it.
This is where DVAC makes a difference. Our certified, unbiased appraisals help level the playing field so owners don’t have to accept the first offer or settle for less.
Conclusion: Protect the True Value of Your Vehicle
For this Oregon driver, DVAC’s appraisal helped recover substantial lost value on a vehicle that had been fully repaired — but not fully compensated for.
Whether you own a commercial van, luxury SUV, or daily driver, diminished value is real — and often significant. Let DVAC provide the accurate, third-party valuation you need to protect your investment.
Ready to find out how much compensation you might be missing?
Contact DVAC today for an objective, data-backed diminished value appraisal.
