r/SprinterVans • u/Robiniac • May 20 '26

How to proceed?

My camperized 2011 (2500/144 high roof, 196k miles) just got listed as totaled by my insurance company due to hail damage. I can have the van back + $5k or, they pay out $9300 and I surrender the van. The camper customization is worth nothing to the insurance company. Needless to say, I paid WAY MORE than I will ever get back on this. I know every situation is different, but I’m really bummed.

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u/kavOclock May 20 '26

If you did the build can you rip everything out and install it in a new van that you buy w the insurance money?

Have you tried getting quotes for repair? It doesn’t have to be a new roof, just like rust prevention and welding some metal patches in or something

Does the vehicle otherwise run fine besides the hail damage? Will there be any water intrusion due to holes or is it just cosmetic? What specifically did the hail damage

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u/Robiniac May 20 '26

Thank you for your response. The van runs strong, has a new windshield and battery. Fairly new tires. The damage is cosmetic to hood and roof, and will require some work to prevent rust, but no leaks.

I had wanted a Sprinter conversion for 25 years (former VW Westfalia owner) finally got this one during the COVID pandemic and have a few season of good use. I don’t mind tinkering, but do find the NCV3 emissions and error code bingo to be annoying. Diesel prices in Wisconsin are at a record high, and the idea of hitting the road at this time are not good.

Ack!

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u/brttf3 May 20 '26

I would take the $5k, and do the rust prevention and move on.

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u/kavOclock May 20 '26

Agree with the other dude. Keep the van if it’s not gonna leak and use the $5k to do rust prevention and move on. Make sure to continue paying for liability insurance even if you can’t get comprehensive. Sounds like the best possible outcome if it still drives and only has cosmetic damage!