there is no chance you will get a replacement car, your car will either be repaired [doubtful] or written off and with over 150k on an 8 year old car the payout will not be much.
Insurance adjusters aren't as dumb as U think. I would leave it alone until it has been inspected. If U mess with it they may void the whole claim and not give U anything. If U are concerned about the appearance of the damage chances are the insurance check will be written to U only if U own it outright and there isn't a lien on it and U can cash it and do what U want.
Tampering with the vehicle will make the claim void if they find you out, insurance companies are very good at finding ways not to pay out and you may give them the excuse they need.
Yes they can tell and so will the jury when you go on trial for insurance fraud.
Yesterday at 1pm I was stationary at a red light when a lady crashed into my vehicle from behind she admitted liability and her insurance company are arranging an inspection and repairs or replacement my car needs a new bumper and a very small bit of metal supporting the bumper affixed to the rear slam panel. I want a replacement as my turbo and clutch are on the blink. Would they tell if I heated up the metal and bent it to write it off? I've also been in a lot of pain in my neck shoulders and headaches
My car is a 2006 ford focus 153k on clock
