What is a Vehicle Damage Assessor?
A Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA) is responsible for inspecting vehicles that have been involved in accidents to assess the extent of the damage. They estimate repair costs by evaluating the damage to bodywork, mechanical systems and electrical components. Using specialised software, VDAs calculate the time, parts and labour required for repairs, often comparing the cost of repair against the value of the vehicle to determine if it is economical to fix. They also liaise with insurance companies, repair shops and customers, preparing detailed reports and ensuring that repair work complies with industry standards and safety regulations.
Your responsibilities
- Appraising a damaged vehicle and identifying and recording damage, including impact zone and severity
- Identifying non-accidental damage to vehicles
- Making use of manual and digital image technology to record areas identified
- Accurately record data from the vehicle including the correct vehicle identification and model details, mileage and modifications
- Identifying and evaluating condition of safety related systems and any action required, applying H&S car related current legislation to do so (e.g. air bags, tyres etc)
- Accessing industry vehicle repair methods and applying them appropriately
- Differentiating between items that need repairing and items that need replacing
- Applying accurate and appropriate opinion times for method and duration of repair
- Assessing the cost and duration of a repair
- Discussing damage and repairs with a range of stakeholders, listening to their view, responding to concerns and negotiating using evidence-based reasoning
- Assessing the current market value of vehicle using industry proprietary guides
- Obtaining authorisation from the client /customer to proceed with repair to a vehicle and confirming the cost of the repair
What You'll need
Core skills
- Strong communication skills
- Good time management skills
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to keep up-to-date with engine and electrical technologies
- Experience working within a bodyshop
What You'll Gain
Transferable skills
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Negotiation and persuasion skills
- Legislation knowledge
- Attention to detail
What You'll Use
Key skills
English
- Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals
- Writing detailed and accurate reports
- Explaining damage and repair needs to customers, insurance companies and technicians
- Interpreting damage reports
Maths
- Assessing and calculating repair costs
- Interpreting data from diagnostic software
- Estimating costs
- Understanding depreciation
- Part and labour repair costs
IT
- Ability to use Microsoft applications and other office software
- Proficiency in using damage assessor software
- Familiarity with diagnostic tools
Role opportunities
These are some possible roles you may consider in your career journey. Discuss with your Inspiro Coach for further guidance.
Bodyshop roles
Paint technician
Panel technician
Mechanical and Electrical Trim Technician
Senior Paint Technician
Senior Panel Technician
Senior M.E.T Technician
Vehicle Damage Assessor
Workshop Controller
Bodyshop Manager
Other related routes
National Careers Website
The National Careers website is a government database that provides information for a job you are looking to explore.
Automotive Sector Roles
Use our Sector Roles map to see if there is a role within your chosen sector that you are interested in.
Resources
Career Development Handbook
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career development handbook
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