Rodent Damage Update
I recently encountered a frustrating situation with my brand new Hyundai Ioniq 5. It wouldn’t start in the -9 degree weather back in early January. As a former mechanic, I checked for blown fuses after it got stuck in the driveway for about five minutes, then had it towed to the dealer.
The dealership took two months to diagnose the issue. Eventually, they decided to open the back of the fuse box and discovered a mouse nest along with several chewed wires. Unfortunately, this damage isn’t covered under warranty.
Now, I have a customer-payout estimate of around $11,000. This includes $2,500 for diagnostic labor (which I plan to dispute because I would have checked this immediately if conditions were different), $2,500 for repair labor, and $6,000 for a new wiring harness and fuse box assembly.
They gave me a detailed look at the damage, and honestly, it seems like it could be fixed with a few hours of careful work. However, as a dealership, their policy is to replace the entire harness to meet factory warranty standards.
They suggested I file a comprehensive insurance claim, which means paying my $500 deductible and potentially facing a rise in rates over the years.
Alternatively, I could cover the diagnostic fee, inform them that I won’t proceed, then tow the car home and make the repairs myself in just a few hours.
However, I’m concerned that there might be hidden damage to other systems that could surface after the repair. The dealership assures me everything else is fine, but I’m hesitant to risk my own money without certainty. I’m about 95% sure there won’t be any further damage.
If I go ahead and repair the wiring harness and later discover additional underlying issues, would I still be able to file a claim?
Honestly, while a potential rate increase isn’t my biggest concern, it frustrates me that an insurance company (or anyone, for that matter) might have to cover $11,000 for what seems like a straightforward fix.
It sounds like you’re stuck in a frustrating situation, and I can understand why you’re weighing your options carefully. Given your background as an ex-mechanic, you have a better grasp of the situation than many would, which can make this even more aggravating.
Here are a few things to consider:
Confirm Additional Damage: Before diving into the repair, see if you can to access and inspect other critical systems in the vehicle yourself. This could help you gauge whether there might be hidden damage beyond the wiring harness and fuse box.
Documentation: If you decide to repair the wiring and then find additional issues later, make sure you document everything meticulously. Take photos, keep copies of your repair receipt, and maintain a log of any symptoms or problems that arise after the initial fix. This way, if you do end up needing to file a claim later on, you will have detailed evidence to support your case.
Filing a Claim: If you go ahead with the repair and later discover that the issues stemmed from the original mouse damage (though not directly related to the wiring harness), it’s possible you could file a claim. However, keep in mind that insurance companies may view this situation differently since you “modified” the original problem. It’s best to discuss your situation directly with your insurance agent to get clarification on how such a claim may be handled and the likelihood of success.
Repair Options: If you feel confident in your ability to perform the repairs and believe they can be completed safely, that may be a viable pathway to avoid the dealer’s markup. Just ensure you’re following safety and repair guidelines, and if any part of the repair feels above your comfort level, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
Negotiate with the Dealer: You might also consider negotiating with the dealer regarding the diagnostic fees. Given the time it took, they may be more willing to adjust the bill if you express your concerns effectively.
Ultimately, weigh the risks and benefits of going the DIY route versus working through the dealership and insurance. You know your skill set and comfort level best, so trust your instincts and make the decision that feels right for you. Good luck!