Question from a reader:
I have a question about car repair costs. I acknowledge that I am 100% at fault for the accident that occurred while parked, but I am not satisfied with the rental car charges. After the accident, when I requested repairs, I was billed 110,000 yen (5,000 yen x 22 days) for the rental car in addition to
the repair costs. I am okay with the repair costs, but I have doubts about the rental car charges. The circumstances of the accident were that the driver’s door opened due to strong winds in a restaurant parking lot and made contact with the neighboring car. The other vehicle had white paint on it, but there were no noticeable dents, and it was something that could be removed with compound. When I took it to the dealer, I was told that left bumper bodywork was necessary. After that, I was informed that it took 22 days from entry to completion due to congestion after the Golden Week holiday. While I understand that repairs can be busy, I cannot accept that rental car charges apply for the entire period from entry to completion when the actual number of days the repair work was done is unknown. For example, couldn’t I have dropped off the car at a time that would allow for a shorter duration? Is it common practice for rental car charges to apply for the “entire custody period” rather than the actual working days? I would like to hear opinions from those with experience or knowledge of the industry.

Questions About Car Repair Costs and Rental Car Charges

Hello! I’m a dad in my 30s who loves comedy and enjoys it every day. Today, I would like to think about a question from a reader regarding car repairs. This question is about not being satisfied with the rental car charges despite acknowledging responsibility for the accident. I also own a car, so I feel a bit closer to this situation, and I believe many of you may have had similar experiences.

The Circumstances of the Accident and the Repair Process

First, let’s clarify the background of the question. The reader mentioned that the driver’s door made contact with the neighboring car due to strong winds. Even small accidents like this can incur significant repair costs if damage is done to the other vehicle. After taking it to the dealer, it was determined that left bumper bodywork was necessary, but since there were no noticeable dents on the other car and the paint could be removed with compound, it raises questions about how much repair was truly needed. It is understandable that it took 22 days from entry to completion due to the busy period. However, it is very reasonable to feel that it is unacceptable for rental car charges to apply for the entire duration from entry to completion when the actual number of days the repair work was done is unknown.

Is It Common to Be Charged for Rental Car Fees?

First, let’s consider the reasons for being charged for rental car fees. When the party at fault sends their vehicle for repairs, it is common for the other party to require a substitute vehicle. This is because the car cannot be used while it is being repaired, so they rent a car instead. However, this situation is a bit more complicated. Given that the actual number of days worked during the 22 days from entry to completion is unknown, is it really reasonable for rental car charges to apply for the entire period? This point largely depends on industry practices and the terms of the contract with the dealer. Generally, rental car fees during the repair period are charged based on the nature and duration of the repairs. However, if the actual days of repair were short, it is a very valid question whether the rental car charges should also be reduced accordingly.

The Importance of Communication with the Service Provider

One point I want to highlight here is the importance of communication with the service provider. When sending a vehicle for repairs, it is crucial to confirm how long the repairs will take and when the work will be done. I have personally experienced unnecessary expenses due to insufficient explanations from the service provider when I sent my car for repairs. For example, asking questions like, “How many days of actual work will there be after entry?” or “What will the rental car fees be during this period?” can help you obtain more specific information and may lead to a more satisfactory resolution.

Negotiation Strategies and Solutions

Now, let’s consider specific solutions. If you are not satisfied with the rental car charges, it is important to consult directly with the service provider. For instance, asking, “How many days of actual work were done for the repairs?” can lead to a discussion about the duration of the repairs and the reasonableness of the rental car charges. Additionally, reviewing the contract terms and the invoice with the service provider is also important. If the charges are based on the conditions stated in the contract, you may have to adhere to that content, but there may be room to raise objections. Furthermore, if discussions with the service provider do not lead to a resolution, consulting a third-party organization or consumer advisory service is also an option. These organizations can support you in resolving disputes and can be a reliable resource.

In Conclusion: Aiming for a Satisfactory Resolution

So, I have shared my thoughts and experiences regarding questions about car repairs and rental car charges. Accidents can happen to anyone, and how we respond afterward is crucial. In cases like this, where there are unsatisfactory charges, it is important to gather information and communicate effectively with the service provider. Finally, I also want to strive for better responses through my future experiences. I hope that any troubles following an accident can be resolved, leading to satisfactory outcomes for the readers. Until next time, I look forward to seeing you in the next blog!