Toyota

• Download the Accident Repair Guide (PDF: 124KB - opens in new window)

Welcome to the world of 'fine print'.

It's only when you have to make a claim that you discover, with car insurance, like everything else in life, you only 'get what you pay for'.

The cheapest premium may also mean the insurer will insist on any repairs being done as cheaply as possible. That could mean using non-genuine parts which may be of inferior quality, or not Australian Design compliant, or even recycled parts.

This is exactly why reading the fine print is vital. So phone your insurer or agent and make absolutely sure your policy states that Genuine Parts will be used to return your vehicle to a condition which meets ADR Australian Design Rules compliance.

What to do at the scene of the accident

1. Check that you, your passengers and those in other accident vehicles are not injured. If there are injuries call an Ambulance (000)
2. Call the police if there are any injuries, or there is major damage and the vehicles are undriveable.
3. Complete Accident Details Report, Other Driver's Details and Insurance Request Form and provide a copy to your insurer.
4. Print out the attached ACCIDENT GUIDE form and place it in your glove box to have on hand should you be involved in an accident.

Understanding Your Repairer

Your insurance company may suggest 'preferred' smash repairers, but you should always have the final say in who fixes your vehicle. If you're unsure of where to go, and you own a Toyota, ask your Toyota Dealer for their local recommendations on top quality repairers with a reputation for using Toyota Genuine Parts.

Once you've selected a repairer, the next step is understanding what is covered in the quote/estimate. Quotes are full of technical jargon, so go through it carefully with the repairer or your insurance assessor to make sure Toyota Genuine Parts are covered.

Understanding Crash Parts

Anything that needs replacing after an accident - the metal panels, glass, guards, plastic mouldings and lights, are all called 'Crash Parts' by the trade.

Crash Parts can be broken into three types:

1. Toyota Genuine Parts
   These are parts manufactured by Toyota, and are exactly the same finish, fit, structural integrity, and safety technology as those used in every new Toyota. They also come with a full Toyota Warranty.
2. Copy Crash Parts
   These are often cheaper copies of Toyota Genuine Parts or Toyota Genuine Panels. Usually manufactured in developing countries, they may maintain their cheapness by cutting corners in the production process. The metal may be thinner or of poorer quality, the fit and finish may be rougher, and most importantly, they may not adhere to Australian Design Rules. The use of these parts may affect some aspect of your vehicle's warranty.
3. 2nd Hand 'Recycled' Parts
   Whilst parts may be of a Toyota parts origin, you know nothing about their history. They may have been salvaged from vehicles which have been so badly damaged they have been written off. Obviously, quality may be compromised from such sourcing, so you need to be extra vigilant if your car is being fitted with 'recycled' parts.

Understanding The Big Safety Risks

By far the biggest concern with non-genuine parts is how they impact on the safety features of your Toyota. Toyota's GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) system aims to meet or exceed the most stringent safety regulations in the world. Millions of dollars are invested each year in crash testing and safety technology design. Every Toyota benefits from this commitment in ways you'd never be aware of - until you're involved in an accident. For example, every Toyota body and chassis features a myriad of tiny folds, indentations and ripples in the metal. You'd never notice them, but they are the 'fold lines' which form the energy absorbing crumple zones which reduce the impact substantially before it reaches the cabin. Non-genuine parts makers may skip these features to save on production costs.

For your own piece of mind, make absolutely certain only Toyota Genuine Parts are fitted. Make sure you insist on it!

If you value your own safety, make absolutely certain only Toyota Genuine Parts are fitted.