Skoda Laura Accident (Help!!)

Architect_J · 7th June 2010, 20:19

Its really sad that my first post on this forum is about an accident but I am really confused and could really use some help.I own a skoda laura (2006) with the dsg gearbox.
First, about the accident. Without going into the specifics it involved a very rash BEST driver who swerved without notice and some very badly placed divider steps. Don't really want to recount all of it but lets just say it was unpleasant.
Anyway the engine oil started leaking so got it towed home.
I asked my mechanic to look at it and also called the autobahn breakdown guys. When they checked they said the steering mounting is cracked, the sump needs to be replaced and the engine block bolt has broken.Which means the engine block is to be replaced.

I was wondering if there was someone reliable who can fix the engine bolt somehow. I dont mind footing the rest of the bill with insurance but the engine block is very expensive and they are saying they will call for it from the factory so the car will be inactive for 1.5 months. Time is another BIG concern as the rainy season has just started.

Basically they said they do not conduct repairs on any part and would replace all of them. This is of course very expensive.

I am unsure of what to do. Autobahn clearly does not have the best reputation around but I did buy it from them. Also I live south of Bandra in Mumbai and their service centre is pretty close compared to JMD which has the best reviews in the forums.
So what should be my next step?
If you know some reliable garages who could help me, please let me know.
I realize this isn't the most well constructed post, but am harrowed after a hard day at work AND haggling with mechanics on my BIRTHDAY! Beat that!

ajmat · 7th June 2010, 21:04

I empathize with your plight.

1: Who is your insurer? Tata AIg inisist on a thorough intrnal assessment for unseen damager

2: Distance is not an issue if you have a good repairer. You need go only once every three -four days

CCP · 7th June 2010, 23:07

For the broken bolt - See if the bolt is inside the thread ,then the block can be reworked. If the threads have got damaged, then it can be reworked by a process called heli-coil.

So it will be helpful if you can post the pic of that bolt on the block.

Regards

CCP.

kavesh55 · 7th June 2010, 23:32

Dear Architect - Feel sorry for the accident and the state of your vehicle. I know how you might be feeling. Let me know if I can help in any way, with parts or workshops. I'm free for a few days. Would be happy to help.

GTO · 8th June 2010, 16:50

First & foremost, get a second opinion on the exact damage. I don't trust Skoda's workshops (with good reason too). Highly recommend you to take the car down to Sunil Shanbagh (Look his co-ordinates up in the Team-BHP Directory forum section).

If you must go authorised, book an appointment with JMD.

Do put up pictures & the estimate as well

IQBAL VEERJI · 8th June 2010, 22:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by Architect_J

Its really sad that my first post on this forum is about an accident but I am really confused and could really use some help.I own a skoda laura (2006) with the dsg gearbox.
First, about the accident. Without going into the specifics it involved a very rash BEST driver who swerved without notice and some very badly placed divider steps. Don't really want to recount all of it but lets just say it was unpleasant.
Anyway the engine oil started leaking so got it towed home.
I asked my mechanic to look at it and also called the autobahn breakdown guys. When they checked they said the steering mounting is cracked, the sump needs to be replaced and the engine block bolt has broken.Which means the engine block is to be replaced.

I was wondering if there was someone reliable who can fix the engine bolt somehow. I dont mind footing the rest of the bill with insurance but the engine block is very expensive and they are saying they will call for it from the factory so the car will be inactive for 1.5 months. Time is another BIG concern as the rainy season has just started.

Basically they said they do not conduct repairs on any part and would replace all of them. This is of course very expensive.

I am unsure of what to do. Autobahn clearly does not have the best reputation around but I did buy it from them. Also I live south of Bandra in Mumbai and their service centre is pretty close compared to JMD which has the best reviews in the forums.
So what should be my next step?
If you know some reliable garages who could help me, please let me know.
I realize this isn't the most well constructed post, but am harrowed after a hard day at work AND haggling with mechanics on my BIRTHDAY! Beat that!

Sorry to read about yhe engine damage , about broken bolt pls show the engine to a turnur(lathe machine) guy he will guide you how to extract the broken bolt , they do all such jobs, only thing is you will have to remove the engine and give it to him,it is very cheap and easy repaires.I have never heard anyone replacing engine blocks because of broken bolt.

ikoneer · 8th June 2010, 23:17

Sorry about the accident. Hope the persons are alright.

If you are not comfortable with Autobahn why are you even considering them, skoda being an expesive car with poor workmanship will become very unreliable for you. Do not mind the distance and take the car to a good service center where it will be taken care well.

Please think through and decide, later you should not regret going to an ill reputed dealer. If i have to decide, i will not decide based on the distance that too for critical and important repairs.

Architect_J · 9th June 2010, 14:04

Thanks a lot for all the comments. Everyone is alright. Infact looking at the car you couldnt even say it has been in an accident. All the damage is under the car.
I will post complete details once I get an estimate from Skoda. I think that will allow for a more informed conversation. Thanks for the contact GTO...I did speak to him and he was great..The reason I gave the car to Autobahn was this guy in charge of accidents there named Iyer who I found sincere, atleast on the phone. I am hoping for the best.
The other question I had for the forum was that I was thinking of selling the car in this condition only and let someone else go through the repairing job. Basically I am quite busy and really wont have the huge amounts of time for following up. The car has been completely accident free before this incident and is 2006 registration. Do you think that is a good idea?

@ Kavesh55...thanks a lot for the help...I will keep you in mind in case anything comes up..
@ CCP , Iqbal....They said the skoda engine is too heavy for a welded bolt. Thus they need to replace it. Will know more soon...will let you know as I find out.

dipen · 9th June 2010, 17:18

Since you have the option of a engine replacement, how about going for the 1.8 TSi. Guess that should be cheaper than the diesel mill. If cheap, it would account the miscellaneous supporting spares. I know its easier said than done that too on a Skoda.

IF diesel is the way, have the workshop guys mentioned anything that you will get the PD engine or the new CRDI mill.

Basically all these options would depend on the estimates that the Skoda people provide.

I suggest you do get a quote from some dealers for selling the car in as is condition. It would help you in taking a informed decision.

ajmat · 10th June 2010, 09:21

Changing from petrol to diesel and vice versa is not easy with ECU's wiring looms etc

ACM · 10th June 2010, 09:49

Changing from petrol to diesel in the Laura would cost more than the residual value of the car.

JMD is the best in Bombay for Skoda

Since you have already deposited the car with Autobahn, you could get the work done there - but only if a second openion from the Contact given by GTO confirms the extent of damage.

All metal parts would be covered 100% by Insurance - so you might as well go and get the engine changed.

The Plastics and glass would be at 50%.

It will take 1.5- 2months in most places for this work on a Skoda Laura - Skoda is itself not too fast in getting the material.

If selling the car in as is condition, then selling to Autobahn itself would be best. You would get the right value only if the insurance claim comes through for the car first.

lambuhere1 · 10th June 2010, 10:10

Quote:

Originally Posted by ACM

The Plastics and glass would be at 50%.

Isnt Glass Covered 100%. Just wondering !!!

TaureanBull · 10th June 2010, 11:59

Quote:

Originally Posted by lambuhere1

Isnt Glass Covered 100%. Just wondering !!!

IMHO glass is covered 100%. Only the rubber and plastic parts depreciate 50%. However, I have my doubts if he will get 100% claim as the metal parts too depreciate. For a car about 4 yrs old the depreciation on metal parts could be 25%. See your insurance papers for details.

I would suggest you to contact your insurance agency and find out what exactly will they pay you and to what extent. If the insurance company is paying for engine block then better wait and get the new one from skoda. If not just go to a lathe and get your job done.

Whether u like it or no but its going to take some precious time of yours. The police FIR, vehicle inspection etc.

ACM · 10th June 2010, 14:15

I meant Glass as in Headlight and fog light glass (if glass) ebing 50%. Windshield glass is 100% with some insurance policies and 50% with others. Metal would be 100%.

7th June 2010, 20:19	#1
Architect_J Newbie Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Mumbai Posts: 2 Thanked: 0 Times	Skoda Laura Accident (Help!!) Its really sad that my first post on this forum is about an accident but I am really confused and could really use some help.I own a skoda laura (2006) with the dsg gearbox. First, about the accident. Without going into the specifics it involved a very rash BEST driver who swerved without notice and some very badly placed divider steps. Don't really want to recount all of it but lets just say it was unpleasant. Anyway the engine oil started leaking so got it towed home. I asked my mechanic to look at it and also called the autobahn breakdown guys. When they checked they said the steering mounting is cracked, the sump needs to be replaced and the engine block bolt has broken.Which means the engine block is to be replaced. I was wondering if there was someone reliable who can fix the engine bolt somehow. I dont mind footing the rest of the bill with insurance but the engine block is very expensive and they are saying they will call for it from the factory so the car will be inactive for 1.5 months. Time is another BIG concern as the rainy season has just started. Basically they said they do not conduct repairs on any part and would replace all of them. This is of course very expensive. I am unsure of what to do. Autobahn clearly does not have the best reputation around but I did buy it from them. Also I live south of Bandra in Mumbai and their service centre is pretty close compared to JMD which has the best reviews in the forums. So what should be my next step? If you know some reliable garages who could help me, please let me know. I realize this isn't the most well constructed post, but am harrowed after a hard day at work AND haggling with mechanics on my BIRTHDAY! Beat that!
	() Thanks

7th June 2010, 21:04	#2
ajmat Team-BHP Support Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Bangalore Posts: 15,197 Thanked: 31,459 Times View My Garage	I empathize with your plight. 1: Who is your insurer? Tata AIg inisist on a thorough intrnal assessment for unseen damager 2: Distance is not an issue if you have a good repairer. You need go only once every three -four days
	() Thanks

7th June 2010, 23:07	#3
CCP Newbie Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Pune Posts: 20 Thanked: Once	For the broken bolt - See if the bolt is inside the thread ,then the block can be reworked. If the threads have got damaged, then it can be reworked by a process called heli-coil. So it will be helpful if you can post the pic of that bolt on the block. Regards CCP.
	() Thanks

7th June 2010, 23:32	#4
kavesh55 BHPian Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Mumbai Posts: 749 Thanked: 49 Times	Dear Architect - Feel sorry for the accident and the state of your vehicle. I know how you might be feeling. Let me know if I can help in any way, with parts or workshops. I'm free for a few days. Would be happy to help.
	() Thanks

8th June 2010, 16:50	#5
GTO Team-BHP Support Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Bombay Posts: 71,944 Thanked: 322,282 Times View My Garage	First & foremost, get a second opinion on the exact damage. I don't trust Skoda's workshops (with good reason too). Highly recommend you to take the car down to Sunil Shanbagh (Look his co-ordinates up in the Team-BHP Directory forum section). If you must go authorised, book an appointment with JMD. Do put up pictures & the estimate as well
	() Thanks

8th June 2010, 23:17	#7
ikoneer BHPian Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: chennai Posts: 486 Thanked: 14 Times	Sorry about the accident. Hope the persons are alright. If you are not comfortable with Autobahn why are you even considering them, skoda being an expesive car with poor workmanship will become very unreliable for you. Do not mind the distance and take the car to a good service center where it will be taken care well. Please think through and decide, later you should not regret going to an ill reputed dealer. If i have to decide, i will not decide based on the distance that too for critical and important repairs.
	() Thanks

9th June 2010, 14:04	#8
Architect_J Newbie Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Mumbai Posts: 2 Thanked: 0 Times	Thanks a lot for all the comments. Everyone is alright. Infact looking at the car you couldnt even say it has been in an accident. All the damage is under the car. I will post complete details once I get an estimate from Skoda. I think that will allow for a more informed conversation. Thanks for the contact GTO...I did speak to him and he was great..The reason I gave the car to Autobahn was this guy in charge of accidents there named Iyer who I found sincere, atleast on the phone. I am hoping for the best. The other question I had for the forum was that I was thinking of selling the car in this condition only and let someone else go through the repairing job. Basically I am quite busy and really wont have the huge amounts of time for following up. The car has been completely accident free before this incident and is 2006 registration. Do you think that is a good idea? @ Kavesh55...thanks a lot for the help...I will keep you in mind in case anything comes up.. @ CCP , Iqbal....They said the skoda engine is too heavy for a welded bolt. Thus they need to replace it. Will know more soon...will let you know as I find out. Last edited by Rehaan : 15th June 2010 at 14:33. Reason: Merging consecutive posts.
	() Thanks

9th June 2010, 17:18	#9
dipen Senior - BHPian Join Date: May 2004 Location: mumbai Posts: 2,304 Thanked: 975 Times	Since you have the option of a engine replacement, how about going for the 1.8 TSi. Guess that should be cheaper than the diesel mill. If cheap, it would account the miscellaneous supporting spares. I know its easier said than done that too on a Skoda. IF diesel is the way, have the workshop guys mentioned anything that you will get the PD engine or the new CRDI mill. Basically all these options would depend on the estimates that the Skoda people provide. I suggest you do get a quote from some dealers for selling the car in as is condition. It would help you in taking a informed decision.
	() Thanks

10th June 2010, 09:21	#10
ajmat Team-BHP Support Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Bangalore Posts: 15,197 Thanked: 31,459 Times View My Garage	Changing from petrol to diesel and vice versa is not easy with ECU's wiring looms etc
	() Thanks

10th June 2010, 09:49	#11
ACM Distinguished - BHPian Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Mumbai Posts: 4,769 Thanked: 4,567 Times View My Garage	Changing from petrol to diesel in the Laura would cost more than the residual value of the car. JMD is the best in Bombay for Skoda Since you have already deposited the car with Autobahn, you could get the work done there - but only if a second openion from the Contact given by GTO confirms the extent of damage. All metal parts would be covered 100% by Insurance - so you might as well go and get the engine changed. The Plastics and glass would be at 50%. It will take 1.5- 2months in most places for this work on a Skoda Laura - Skoda is itself not too fast in getting the material. If selling the car in as is condition, then selling to Autobahn itself would be best. You would get the right value only if the insurance claim comes through for the car first.
	() Thanks

10th June 2010, 14:15	#14
ACM Distinguished - BHPian Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Mumbai Posts: 4,769 Thanked: 4,567 Times View My Garage	I meant Glass as in Headlight and fog light glass (if glass) ebing 50%. Windshield glass is 100% with some insurance policies and 50% with others. Metal would be 100%.
	() Thanks