Self-pay or insurance: what can the calculator compare?

Calculator guide · Pres Schadeherstel

The calculator immediately provides a concrete repair amount that you can compare with your insurance excess, policy terms and the possible consequences of making a claim. It does not make the insurance decision for you, but it gives a far more useful starting point than a rough guess based on a single photo.

  • Around 90% accurate on average
  • Overview per part
  • Specialist photo review

A concrete calculation in one minute

  • With complete and correct input, the calculated price is on average about 90% aligned with the final repair price in our practical experience.
  • Every selected part and repair action directly affects the amount.
  • Photos allow a specialist to verify that the input matches the visible damage.
  • The largest differences arise from omitted damage, a damage level selected too low or hidden technical damage.

What can the calculator compare?

The calculator shows which visible repair activities and parts were selected and immediately provides a calculated repair price. You can compare this amount with your insurance excess and policy terms.

The result also helps prepare a conversation with an insurer, broker, employer or leasing company because you already have a structured damage overview and photos.

What can the calculator not decide?

  • Whether the event is covered by your specific policy.
  • Exactly how a claim will affect premiums or claim-free years.
  • Who is legally liable for the damage.
  • Whether an insurer accepts a particular repair route or repairer.
  • Which reporting deadlines or evidence rules apply.
Not personalised insurance advice

Use the calculation as practical price information and confirm the insurance decision with your insurer, broker or leasing company.

Factors to compare with the calculated price

Factor Question Why it matters
Excess How much do you pay yourself anyway? For smaller damage, the difference with private payment may be limited.
Cover Is this event covered? Third-party, limited and comprehensive policies differ.
Claims history Could a claim affect premium or discount? The longer-term effect can outweigh the repair amount.
Liability Is another party demonstrably responsible? Recovery from the other party may be possible.
Lease or company vehicle Is there a required reporting process? Ordering repairs yourself may conflict with agreements.

A practical order of actions

Document the damageTake photos of the damage, surroundings and relevant information from other parties.
Calculate the repair priceSelect every damaged part in the Pres calculator.
Check your policy or agreementReview the excess, cover and reporting process.
Request confirmation if neededDiscuss the situation with the insurer, broker, employer or leasing company.
Have the repair route reviewedRequest specialist review before giving the final order.

Three simple scenarios

Small parking damage with no known third party

Compare the calculated price with the excess and possible premium effect. The calculator does not make the choice but gives a concrete starting amount.

Damage caused by an identified third party

Keep photos, contact information and any statement. The calculated price can help document the scale while liability is handled separately.

Lease or company vehicle

Follow the required reporting process first. The calculator can provide a useful overview, but the owner may require a specific route or approval.

Keep the right information

In addition to damage photos, the date, location, involved parties and a short description can be important. Do not repair or alter the damage until you know which evidence and reporting requirements apply.

If the vehicle may be unsafe, safety must always come before the financial comparison.

Frequently asked questions

Does the calculator tell me whether claiming is cheaper?

No. It provides a concrete calculated repair amount. The financial effect of claiming depends on your policy and personal situation.

Can I send the calculation to my insurer?

You can use the overview and photos as preparation. Ask the insurer which documents or calculation format are officially required.

Should I calculate damage to a lease car myself?

You can use the calculator for insight, but always follow the reporting and repair process of the leasing company or employer.

What if the other party pays?

Document the damage and details carefully. Liability and payment are handled separately from the technical repair assessment.

Calculator cluster

Continue reading about this calculator

These deeper guides connect directly to this topic and stay focused on how the Pres damage calculator works.

Calculate your vehicle damage

Enter the vehicle registration, select the damaged parts and receive a concrete repair calculation with a price for each damaged part. Add photos when you want the calculation reviewed by a specialist.

Start the calculator →

With complete and correct input, the calculated price is on average about 90% aligned with the final repair price in our practical experience. The amount may change when damage was omitted, classified incorrectly or only becomes visible after dismantling.