Vehicle Damage Assessment Flashcards
7 cards from real CALA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Vehicle Damage Assessment flashcards as text
A claimant insists their vehicle was repaired previously and returned to pre-loss condition. The adjuster finds inconsistent paint thickness readings. What should the adjuster do?
Answer: Note the paint thickness anomalies in the file and investigate prior damage history
Inconsistent paint thickness readings indicate prior repairs and the adjuster must document this finding and investigate to separate pre-existing damage from the current loss.
What does the term 'blend' mean in the context of an automotive repair estimate?
Answer: Feathering new paint into adjacent panels to achieve a color match
Blending involves applying and feathering new paint into surrounding undamaged panels so the repaired area matches seamlessly in color and texture.
When evaluating a damaged vehicle, an adjuster discovers the airbags deployed. Which additional inspection is mandatory before finalizing the repair estimate?
Answer: Full airbag system and occupant restraint system assessment
Airbag deployment requires complete assessment of the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System), including modules, sensors, seat belts, and clock spring, as these components often need replacement.
An insurer uses the Guidebook (CCC, Mitchell, or Audatex) to determine ACV. What data sources do these systems primarily rely on?
Answer: Comparable vehicles currently available for sale in the local market
Valuation systems like CCC ONE, Mitchell WorkCenter, and Audatex aggregate local comparable vehicle listings to establish a market-based ACV.
A vehicle's A-pillar is damaged in a collision. Why is this component particularly critical to assess carefully?
Answer: It is a structural pillar critical to roof crush resistance and airbag curtain mounting
The A-pillar is a primary structural component that supports roof integrity during rollover and anchors side curtain airbag systems, making accurate damage assessment safety-critical.
When is betterment most appropriately applied to a repair estimate?
Answer: When new OEM parts replace parts that were worn, damaged, or near end of life
Betterment is applied when replacement of a worn or deteriorated part with a new part improves the vehicle's condition beyond its pre-loss state, such as replacing a tire with significant tread wear.
Which condition would most likely cause an adjuster to recommend a vehicle be re-inspected at a repair facility rather than settled from a field inspection?
Answer: Suspected hidden damage behind a visibly damaged panel
Suspected hidden or secondary structural damage requires disassembly at a repair facility to fully identify all affected components before a complete estimate can be written.