Have you ever wondered why a car is declared a salvage vehicle? There are actually a few different reasons this can happen, and it’s not always because the car has been in a major accident. In some cases, it can be due to severe weather damage or even extensive mechanical problems. Keep reading to learn more about the top reasons a car may become a salvage vehicle. You may be surprised at what can cause a car to be totaled!
Flooding:
Severe flooding can cause extensive damage to a car’s electrical system, powertrain and interior. The water can quickly rust out vital components, causing irreparable damage that makes the car unsafe to drive. In this case, the car will usually have to be declared as a total loss and given a salvage title.
Fire Damage:
If a vehicle catches fire, it can easily become beyond repairable due to the high heat and smoke from the blaze. Not only can the plastic parts of the car melt away, but also all of its electronic components may stop working properly or no longer function at all.
Emission Failure:
Some states require vehicles pass an emissions test in order to be legally driven on public roads. If a car fails this test, it can be declared a total loss and given a salvage title.
Hail Damage:
Although hail typically does not cause major damage to cars, the dents and scratches that it leaves behind can lower the vehicle’s resale value by thousands of dollars. In these cases, insurance companies may declare the car totaled due to its reduced market value.
Theft:
If a vehicle is stolen and not recovered in time, it will likely end up at an auto auction with a salvage title on it. Even if the car is found in one piece, any parts that were stripped from it while missing can significantly reduce its worth when sold at auction or through private sale.
Vandalism:
Vandalism is another reason why a car may become a salvage vehicle. If the damage caused by vandals is extensive, it can be cheaper for the insurance company to declare the vehicle totaled and give it a salvage title rather than investing in repairs. No matter what the cause of a car’s salvage title may be, buyers should always make sure they are aware of any issues that could affect its performance or reliability before purchasing such a vehicle. With the right knowledge and research, you can be certain you’re getting a safe ride at an affordable price when you buy a salvaged car.
Accidents:
Of course, accidents are a major cause of cars becoming salvage vehicles. If the cost to repair the vehicle is more than its resale value, it can be declared a total loss and given a salvage title.
Mechanical Problems:
Severe mechanical problems can be expensive to fix, especially if the engine or transmission needs to be replaced. In some cases, these repairs may not be cost-effective for the insurance company and the car could end up with a salvage title.
Age:
In some cases, a car may be declared a total loss due to its age. If the cost of repairs is more than the car’s market value, it can be given a salvage title and sold at an auction.
Natural Disasters:
Extreme weather such as tornadoes and hurricanes can cause significant damage to vehicles, resulting in them being labeled as salvaged cars. Even if the car still runs after being hit by a tornado or hurricane, it could have water or wind damage that would make it unsafe to drive on public roads.
No matter what caused your car to become a total loss, it’s important to know that there are still ways you can get a good deal on one. You can sell your salvage vehicle to the buyers who buys salvage cars near you. You can get instant cash for junk cars and get a handsome amount for your clunker.
