6 Facts about Rebuilt Car Titles

When looking to purchase a used car you might see that the vehicle was issued a rebuilt car title. This term varies slightly in most states, but is generally used to describe a vehicle that was considered salvage and was then repaired or restored. The car first received a salvage title after the vehicle was damaged and considered totaled and inoperable. Once the car was restored, a rebuilt title will be issued.

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Facts about Rebuilt Car Titles

• What was the damage to the vehicle? The DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) and companies like AutoCheck can give you a report to the history of the vehicle.

• What was the extent of damage and where was the vehicle repaired? Some companies use damaged parts or cut and weld pieces together to create a replacement part.

• Was the frame damaged and was the frame aligned properly? A misaligned frame can cause excessive wear and strain to the drive train, wheels, tires and brakes.

• Was the car examined and certified by an independent and qualified mechanic? A car not examined and certified can cause problems that will cost more to repair than the original purchase price of the car.

• Can the car be insured? Many times a car that has a rebuilt or reconstructed title will be denied insurance.

• What other terms are used for salvaged cars? There are other term used such as junk or flood damage.

These are things to think about before purchasing a vehicle that was totaled and then received a salvage title. Many times when the cost of the repair is close to the value of the vehicle, the insurance company will consider it totaled and not offer a payment to have the car repaired. Though repairable in some cases, there are times when these types of damages can cause a vehicle never to operate properly or safely again.