If your vehicle has been declared a total loss, there is a good chance the insurance company used a CCC valuation report to determine its value.

CCC Intelligent Solutions is one of the most widely used vehicle valuation platforms in the insurance industry. Every day, CCC reports are used to help determine total loss settlement amounts across the country.

But just because a report was generated by CCC does not automatically mean the value is correct.

Understanding how these reports work can help you better evaluate your settlement offer.

1. CCC Does Not Determine The Final Value

One of the biggest misconceptions is that CCC determines what your vehicle is worth.

It doesn't.

CCC provides a valuation report based upon information entered into the system and the comparable vehicles selected.

The final settlement decision is still made by the insurance company.

In other words:

CCC provides the report.

The insurance company makes the offer.

2. The Vehicle Information Must Be Accurate

A valuation report is only as good as the information entered.

Incorrect information can significantly impact value.

Common issues include:

• Wrong trim level

• Missing options

• Incorrect mileage

• Incorrect condition

• Missing packages

• Missing equipment

A vehicle equipped with a premium package, technology package, towing package, or luxury package may be worth substantially more than a similar base model.

Always verify the vehicle information section carefully.

3. Comparable Vehicles Matter

CCC relies heavily upon comparable vehicles.

The quality of the comparable vehicles often determines the quality of the valuation.

Questions to ask include:

• Are the vehicles the same trim?

• Are they similarly equipped?

• Are they reasonably local?

• Are they similar in mileage?

• Are they the same drivetrain?

• Are they actually comparable?

Not all comparables are created equal.

A report containing weak comparable vehicles can produce a weak valuation.

4. Condition Adjustments Can Impact Value

Many CCC reports include condition adjustments.

These adjustments may account for:

• Prior damage

• Interior condition

• Exterior condition

• Tires

• Mechanical condition

While condition adjustments can be appropriate, they should be supported and documented.

Consumers should review these adjustments carefully and ask questions if they do not appear accurate.

5. Options And Packages Are Extremely Important

One of the most common valuation issues involves missing options.

Examples include:

• Premium packages

• Technology packages

• Tow packages

• Luxury packages

• Navigation systems

• Panoramic roofs

• Premium audio systems

• Performance packages

Even small option errors can affect the final value.

Multiple missing options can create a significant valuation difference.

6. CCC Reports Are Not Infallible

CCC is a tool.

Like any tool, it relies upon the data available.

Valuation reports may occasionally contain:

• Incorrect vehicle information

• Weak comparables

• Missing options

• Questionable adjustments

• Market inconsistencies

This does not mean the report is intentionally wrong.

It simply means the report should be reviewed rather than blindly accepted.

Professional review can often identify issues that may impact the final settlement amount.

7. You Have The Right To Ask Questions

Many vehicle owners assume the valuation report is final.

It is not.

If you believe the report contains errors, you should ask questions.

You may wish to review:

• Vehicle information

• Comparable vehicles

• Mileage adjustments

• Condition adjustments

• Option content

• Market area selection

The more you understand the report, the better equipped you are to determine whether the valuation accurately reflects your vehicle.

Real-World Example

Vehicle:

2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL

Insurance Company Value:

$24,750

After review:

✓ Premium package omitted

✓ Tow package omitted

✓ Comparable vehicle included prior accident history

✓ Mileage discrepancy identified

Corrected Market Value:

$27,400

Difference:

$2,650

The valuation platform did not create the error.

The underlying information did.

This is why every valuation should be reviewed carefully.

The Bottom Line

CCC valuation reports are valuable tools used throughout the insurance industry.

However, they are not perfect.

A strong valuation depends on:

• Accurate vehicle information

• Proper comparable vehicle selection

• Correct option content

• Appropriate adjustments

• Transparent methodology

Understanding how these reports work can help vehicle owners make informed decisions when evaluating a total loss settlement.

The Cardwell Standard

We do not create value.

We support, document, analyze, and determine value based upon evidence, market data, and professional methodology.