Expert Reviewed by: David Chen, Senior Automotive Claims Specialist & CFA
Updated: October 2023 | Verified for Accuracy
Determine the estimated settlement from your insurance provider with our kelley blue book totaled car value calculator. Whether you are deciding to keep your car or surrender it to the insurance company, this tool provides a clear breakdown of the Actual Cash Value (ACV) and the total loss threshold.
Kelley Blue Book Totaled Car Value Calculator
Kelley Blue Book Totaled Car Value Calculator Formula:
Standard Payout = ACV – Deductible
Retained Payout = ACV – Deductible – Salvage Value
Reference Sources: Kelley Blue Book, Insurance Information Institute
Variables:
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): The market value of your vehicle just before the accident occurred.
- Deductible: The amount you agreed to pay out of pocket for repairs in your insurance policy.
- Repair Cost: The total estimate from a mechanic to return the car to its pre-accident condition.
- Threshold: The percentage of ACV at which an insurance company declares a car “totaled.”
Related Calculators:
What is kelley blue book totaled car value calculator?
A “totaled” car, or a total loss, occurs when the cost of repairing the vehicle exceeds a certain percentage of its Actual Cash Value (ACV). This kelley blue book totaled car value calculator helps you estimate how much money you will actually receive from your insurance company after your deductible and potential salvage costs are factored in.
Understanding this value is critical during negotiations with insurance adjusters. Since insurance companies use their own proprietary software to determine ACV, the KBB value serves as a powerful benchmark for consumers to ensure they are receiving a fair market offer.
How to Calculate (Example):
- Find your car’s pre-accident value (ACV) using KBB. (e.g., $10,000)
- Determine your deductible. (e.g., $500)
- Check your state’s total loss threshold. (e.g., 75%)
- If repairs ($8,000) > ACV * Threshold ($7,500), the car is totaled.
- Final Payout: $10,000 – $500 = $9,500.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Is the KBB value the same as the ACV? While similar, ACV is what the insurance company believes the car is worth in your local market, while KBB is a national average guide.
Can I keep my car if it’s totaled? Yes, but the insurance company will deduct the “Salvage Value” from your payout, and you will receive a salvage title.
What is a total loss threshold? It is a legal limit (varying by state) that mandates a car must be totaled if repairs exceed a specific percentage of its value.
Does GAP insurance help with a totaled car? Yes, GAP insurance covers the difference between your insurance payout and the remaining balance on your auto loan.