After an accident, even expertly repaired vehicles can suffer lasting financial loss. This is especially true in Arizona, where diminished value often goes unclaimed simply because drivers aren’t aware of their rights or options. In this case study, DVAC helped the owner of a 2020 Toyota Tacoma uncover—and recover—the vehicle’s true post-repair diminished value.
Vehicle Overview
Make/Model: 2020 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Crew Cab
Location: Arizona
Accident Type: Moderate front and side impact
Mileage at Time of Accident: 84,739 miles
Repair Cost: $14,079.54
Diminished Value Status: Appraised and documented
Appraised Diminished Value Amount: $2,800
This single-owner Tacoma was regularly serviced and well maintained, with a clean Arizona title. Unfortunately, its CARFAX now includes a record of moderate accident damage across multiple panels, including structural areas. Despite professional restoration using OEM parts, the vehicle’s resale value took a hit.
. 
Why Diminished Value Still Matters in Arizona
Arizona does not have a statutory formula for diminished value. However, case law and insurance policy language often allow owners to pursue it—especially when the loss is documented by a licensed third party.
Even after repairs are complete, an accident history on services like CARFAX reduces buyer confidence and resale appeal. As a result, vehicles lose real market value. This Tacoma’s post-accident CARFAX now includes moderate damage to the front, left front, left side, and left rear. Such history permanently impacts trade-in value and private sale negotiations.
How DVAC Delivered a Data-Backed Diminished Value Appraisal
After seeing the damage and recognizing the impact on future value, the vehicle owner turned to DVAC for help. Our certified appraiser reviewed the full repair bill, which exceeded $14,000 and included replacements to structural parts, hood, front fender, grille, and lighting systems.
DVAC’s process included:
A review of the full collision repair documentation
Analysis using market data from J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Black Book, and MMR
CARFAX History + CARFAX Market Report integration
VIN-specific analysis of similar trucks within the Arizona market
Using this information, DVAC provided an unbiased diminished value appraisal that factored in real market trends and Arizona-specific resale conditions. The report empowered the owner to pursue compensation for a value loss that would otherwise go unclaimed.
What Arizona Drivers Need to Know About Diminished Value
Whether you’ve been involved in a minor or moderate accident, your vehicle could lose thousands of dollars in resale value—even if it looks as good as new. Here’s what every Arizona driver should keep in mind:
Diminished value is real and recoverable—but only if you document it.
Insurance companies rarely offer it upfront—you need to ask for it and back it with data.
A professional third-party appraisal is your best tool for maximizing recovery and avoiding drawn-out disputes.
Conclusion: Don’t Settle for Less After a Collision
In this case, DVAC helped an Arizona driver defend the value of their 2020 Toyota Tacoma and document their financial loss due to diminished value. The appraisal provided facts—not opinions—grounded in trusted industry data.
If your car has been in an accident and repaired, don’t leave money on the table. Even with a previous accident in the history, DVAC can help you calculate what your vehicle is truly worth today.
Ready to find out how much compensation you might be missing?
Contact DVAC today for an objective, data-backed diminished value appraisal.
