[Vwdiesel] Rear suspension issues

[Scott Kair]

>> The story is that
I went over a large pothole and it made the top of my passenger's side shock
come up through the tower and punch a small hole into the rear deck
material.<<

    If the pothole was on public roadway, it *may be possible* to recover if
you have to shell out for repairs. Assuming that you haven't driven by or
through it for a month or more without reporting it, provable suspension
damage can be grounds for a claim.
     First, if you can do so without endangering yourself or others, get a
series of good, clear photos of the hole, with something like a tapemeasure
or ruler to lend some perspective.  Then, asap, call the agency responsible
for maintenance of that section of road- state, county, township or
municipality. When you get them on the phone, ask if anyone else has
reported it yet, give them specifics as to its location-i.e. address or
distance from mile marker, which lane, etc.- and ask that it be repaired.
Then ask for the number of the agency's risk management or claims
department.  Be sure to get the name of the individual you talk to. Then
call the risk manager, explain the situation, and file your claim.
    Give them a week, and see if it's been patched.  If not, get another
photo, call again, explain that this is your second call, and ask what it
would take to get the hole filled.
    A couple of caveats apply.  You may have to prove reasonable and prudent
speed and caution.  If it involved a construction zone, or was a marked
hazard, you'll probably be sol.  Some agencies in some locales are
indemnified against damage.  Damage to older cars can be dicey from a claims
standpoint. And if it turns out to involve a cheap part you replace
yourself, a claim hassle wouldn't be worth the time and trouble.  Still,
report the hole.
    HTH,
    Scott Kair