Salvage cars for sale guide

Have you dreamed of owning a specific car, but the model you want is a little out of your price range? Are you mechanically inclined or have access to a good mechanic? Then a salvage title car may be the answer for you. If you perform a little research, you can save 30% or more and own the car of your dreams. It could be anything from a Ferrari, Mercedes, Corvette, Hummer, or even a VW Bug. It doesn't matter if the car is new or old. You can find muscle cars from the 70s or a 2009 hybrid.

All makes and models are available for the choosing. Perhaps you want a pickup truck, a minivan, or a midlife crisis sports car. Maybe your wife is ready for that new SUV, a 2009 Lincoln Navigator, or a new Hybrid Suburban. Any car, any truck, you can find them all in the salvage title market.

What is a Salvage Title Car?

In a nutshell, a salvage title car is one that an insurance company has deemed to be un-repairable. There are many reasons that the car has been deemed un-repairable. The vehicle could be damaged from a flood or a highway accident. The vehicle could have been stolen and the VIN tag removed. In either case, it is the insurance company that deems the vehicle a total loss, hence the term "totaled."

Flood Damage:

A vehicle damaged in a flood is one to be careful with. These will typically look immaculate although they may have underlying problems. Water and computers don't mix. On the other hand, if you can buy a beautiful 2009 flood vehicle for a fraction of the normal cost, you may just have a bargain. Spend a little money on a computer, radio, and a few other odds and ends, and you will be the proud owner of a 2009 car or truck.

Another consideration with a flood-damaged car is the type of flood. If the damage was caused by salt water, then you need to consider the effects of corrosion. The car can still be a bargain, just be prepared for a little extra work.

Highway Crash:

A vehicle that has been totaled in a crash may appear to be a lost cause; however, these can be some of the best bargains. If the frame isn't bent too awful bad, then it is just a matter of buying a few aftermarket bolt-on parts, and you have yourself a new car.

A very economical method of rebuilding a crashed car is to locate 2 vehicles of the same or similar model year. For instance, if a 2007 and 2008 compact car is constructed from the same basic component, then buy both and call it a 2008. Perhaps the 2007 was crushed in the rear, and the 2008 was in a head-on collision. Take the engine, fenders, hood, and bumper off of the 2007 and assemble the parts on the 2008 chassis. Now you own an immaculate 2008 compact car with OEM components for just a fraction of the cost.

Stolen Cars:

Occasionally, you can find a car that was stolen and then recovered and is immaculate from front to rear. The only problem is the missing VIN #. This project may require some savvy work to have the vehicle re-titled.

Many stolen cars are stripped for parts within 72 hours. You may find a recovered vehicle that is only missing the front end or perhaps the doors, wheels, and engine. This can also be a bargain. Buy a new engine and a couple of body parts, and you're ready for the next 100,000 miles.

Finance:

Typically, banks don't want to get involved in salvaged cars since the damaged car may have very little collateral value. However, if your credit is in good standing, check with your bank and confirm the loan ratio they will offer.

Insurance:

Most insurance companies will offer insurance coverage for salvage cars. Check with your carrier in advance.

Summary:

Do a little research; add some elbow grease and a coat of fresh paint, then you can drive off in the car of your dreams for half the price of the standard market value. Check out the salvage cars for sale here and find yourself a bargain.