The first quarter of 2008 saw some interesting trends in vehicle repair data compared to a year ago at this time.  This data is based on the manufacturer’s Country of Origin ( 1st character of the VIN number ).

Average loss severity of foreign made vehicles in Q1 2008 was down $447.67 to $2561.13 compared to $ 3008.80 a year ago. 

Aftermarket part usage on foreign made vehicles in Q1 2008 was up 4% compared to a year ago while Used parts utilization decreased 1.31%.

In 2007 Q1  22.25% of all foreign made vehicles were deemed total losses. In 2008 21.1% were totalled.

The average labor hours to repair foreign made vehicles saw a decrease of 1.5 hrs of body labor, .5 hours less frame time but an increase of .5 mechanical operations.

The average age of foreign vehicles involved in an auto accident are currently 7 years in age.

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Data source:  © 2008, AutoClaims Direct, DirectLink