Despite the fact that salvage cars represent a floodgate of opportunities for enthusiasts and mod shops to get their hands on some of the most highly sought-after nameplates at unbelievably low prices, many people shy away from the option, assuming all salvage cars are damaged beyond repair. This couldn’t be further from the truth. To lay all such misconceptions to rest, in this article, we list some of the common reasons to which a car may get a salvage title. Read on.
Serious Damage
This is the most common reason for a car to be given the salvage title. If a vehicle gets involved in an accident and the cost of repairs exceeds its current value, it is declared totaled by the insurance company. In such cases, the vehicle is given a salvage title and is sold off to an auction or scrap yard, depending upon its condition.
Natural Disaster
The next most common reason for a car to receive the salvage title is damage caused due to a natural disaster. The US is subject to various extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes, tornados and even severe floods. These leave countless vehicles damaged beyond repair. All of these vehicles are given the salvage or flooded title and are generally bought only to recover parts.
Also Read: 5 Factors to Consider When Buying Salvage Title Cars
Delayed Theft Recovery
When a vehicle is stolen, depending upon the state, it should be recovered within a certain period of time (21 to 30 days in most states). If a vehicle is not recovered within the stipulated period, it is written off as total loss by the insurance company; if the vehicle is recovered afterward, it is given a salvage title and sold off to an auction yard.
Prohibited Modification
While the desire to improve the appeal or performance is completely understandable, many people push the envelope just a little too far, often due to a lack of awareness about the laws surrounding automobiles. Vehicles with any illegal modifications could be declared unfit for the road, and subsequently, given the salvage title.
Wrap Up
In addition to the aforementioned, replicas/kit-cars and sometimes even classic cars can be given the salvage title. No matter the reason due to which a car has received the salvage title, you can expect a remarkably low price. If you want to buy your favorite car but are held back by your budget, check out our inventory of clean and salvage cars for sale. If you have any questions, simply call +1 (360) 347-1300, Monday through Friday, 7am to 4pm (PST) or email at support@salvagebid.com.