Question 1

What is a salvage title?

Accepted Answer

A salvage title is issued when a vehicle has been declared a total loss by an insurance company, typically because the cost to repair exceeds a percentage of the vehicle's value (usually 75-90% depending on the state). Salvage title vehicles cannot be legally driven on public roads until they are repaired and pass a state inspection to receive a rebuilt title.

Question 2

Can you insure a car with a salvage title?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance companies will not offer full coverage (comprehensive and collision) on a salvage-titled vehicle. Once a salvage vehicle is repaired and receives a rebuilt title, some insurers will offer limited coverage, but rates may be higher. Liability-only coverage is generally available for rebuilt title vehicles.

Question 3

What is a flood title?

Accepted Answer

A flood title (or flood-damage brand) is issued when a vehicle has sustained significant water damage, typically from natural disasters. Flood damage can cause long-term electrical problems, mold, corrosion, and mechanical failures that may not be immediately visible. These vehicles are often cleaned up and resold in states that don't require flood branding disclosure.

Question 4

How does lemon law work?

Accepted Answer

Lemon laws protect buyers who purchase new vehicles with substantial defects that the manufacturer cannot fix after a reasonable number of attempts. If a vehicle qualifies as a lemon, the manufacturer must buy it back or replace it. The vehicle then receives a lemon law buyback brand on its title, which must be disclosed to future buyers in most states.

Question 5

Should I buy a car with a rebuilt title?

Accepted Answer

A rebuilt title means a previously salvaged vehicle has been repaired and passed state inspection. While these vehicles can be significantly cheaper (30-50% below market), they come with risks: unknown repair quality, reduced resale value, limited insurance options, and potential hidden damage. Always get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.

Question 6

How can I check a vehicle's title history?

Accepted Answer

You can check title history by entering the VIN here for a free preliminary check. For comprehensive history, services like NMVTIS (National Motor Vehicle Title Information System) maintain records of title brands, salvage records, and total loss events reported by insurers, junkyards, and state DMVs.

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