The Three Ways to Buy a Used Car

When you’re in the market for a used car, there are essentially three ways you can go about finding one. The first is the most obvious: going to a used (or new) car dealership. The second, and one that many are taking advantage of these days, is buying directly through an owner, something that can be made possible by looking around online or through classified ads.

The third option, and one that you might not have thought of using before, is used car auctions. For a variety of reasons, you will likely find that this last option is the best when you’re looking to get the right used car at the right price. However, there are pros and cons to all three of these options for buying a used car, which we will discuss below.

Buying a Used Car From a Dealer

When most people find themselves in the market for a used car, the first thing they think to do is to visit a used car dealership. To be sure, there are a few different reasons why this might make sense in your case. For example, you may have a long-standing relationship with a dealer in which there’s established trust.

Alternatively, you might know precisely what kind of used car you want, and are willing to get that make and model from a dealer that offers it.

However, before you instantly default to working with a dealership when buying a used car, consider the drawbacks. For one, you’re going to be incredibly limited when it comes to choice. After all, you can only select from the used cars that a dealer has on the lot at any given time! Aside from this, though, there may be an even bigger drawback to buying a used car from a dealership.

This drawback is price. Dealerships, as you likely well know, are in the business of making money. Even when you’re working with a dealer in whom you have trust, that dealer still needs to add a markup in order to turn a profit. Worse yet, when you’re working with a dealer in whom you do not already have trust the possibility exists for getting fleeced.

Used car dealers are notorious for tricking their customers, often getting them to pay more money than a vehicle is worth, especially in instances when a vehicle is damaged in ways that might not be readily apparent. Simply put, there’s a reason that used car dealerships have a bad reputation.

Buying a Used Car Directly From an Owner

Given the drawbacks above, many people have begun to purchase their used cars directly from owners. The biggest benefit to this should be readily obvious. An owner
does not need to markup the price of their used car in order to come out ahead; they only need to sell their used car for more than a dealer would be willing to buy it and less than someone could purchase it from said dealer. As a result, when you buy directly from an owner, you stand to enjoy savings.

Of course, while this is a tremendous benefit for buying a used car directly from an owner, there are potential drawbacks of which one needs to be aware. Most notably, consider that many are now sourcing used cars that are “for sale by owner” through services like Craigslist. While it’s certainly possible to find a reputable used car owner who isn’t trying to pull one over on you, it’s equally possible that you’ll find one who is. Because of this, the potential for being caught in a scam is greater – much greater, in fact, than getting scammed by an unscrupulous used car dealer.

Provided you’re able to keep your wits about you and protect yourself at every turn through the purchasing process, you can get a great deal on a used car when buying
directly from an owner. However, if you drop your guard even momentarily, you could end up with a lemon and little recourse when it comes to recouping your losses.

Buying a Used Car at Auction

In many ways, buying a used car at auction is the perfect compromise of the previous two options, presenting a number of benefits that anyone would find appealing. First, the potential for saving an extraordinary amount of money is present. Provided that you have a nose for a good deal and know a diamond in the rough when you see one, it’s possible to get a used car at auction for a rock-bottom price. Second, you also have an incredible array of choices, not just in makes and models, but also in style and level of luxury. Finally, you have the protection of working and bidding through an auction.

If there’s one drawback to purchasing a used car at auction, though, it’s this: any time you purchase a used car through an auction, you are purchasing a vehicle “as-is”. If you bid on and win a vehicle, then it’s yours with its warts and all. You need to price in this risk when you decide on your bids on the vehicles.

Now, provided you do your due diligence throughout the searching and bidding process – inspecting vehicles, requesting history reports, etc. – this shouldn’t be an issue. However, it’s important to understand that you can’t just take the car back to the auction if you don’t like it or if something’s wrong like you might be able to with a dealer. When you’ve won at car at a live auction, it’s yours. Full stop.

Participating in Used Car Auctions in Person and Online

To be sure, used car auctions present the average consumer with the very best chance to purchase a used car at an incredible price. However, it’s important to understand that the laws surrounding used car auctions – and the people who can register to bid in them – vary by state to state. In fact, in most cases you’ll find that only those who are in possession of a dealer’s license are able to participate in used car auctions.

But this is just a speed bump and not a roadblock! If you’re looking to participate in a used car auction in person, you can always work with an intermediary who does have a dealer’s license. Even better, though, you can participate in something known as online car auctions, which allow you to shop for used cars across the country, and all without having to locate and hire an intermediary yourself.

We’ll be discussing the ins and outs of participating in both in-person and online used car auctions below. You’ll soon discover how it’s quite possible for you to begin taking advantage of the incredible savings they offer today!

About In-Person Used Car Auctions

As mentioned, the vast majority of in-person used car auctions will require that you register as a dealer prior to participation. If you want, you can look into what it takes in your state to become licensed as a dealer. In some cases, you may find that the fees and paperwork are quite minimal; in other cases, you might find that registering as a dealer may be prohibitively expensive or more trouble than it’s worth.

Of course, you don’t need to become licensed as a dealer to participate; you only need find an auction agent or broker who can bid on your behalf. Knowing this instantly opens the doors of in-person used car auctions to you. However, remember that you will have to pay for the privilege of having someone bid on your behalf, something that’s going to cut into the savings that you would expect to reap by bidding on used cars at auction.

There are, it should be noted, some auctions that are entirely open to the public. Most often, these kinds of auctions will be conducted by local law enforcement or impound garages. Public auto auctions are held to clear out cars that have been in the garage or on the lot for too long, never claimed by their owners. In addition, you’ll find that government auctions, which are open to the public, take place too. Most often these are conducted by agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
If you do participate in an in-person used car auction, you’ll typically have a set period during which you can inspect a vehicle. During this time, you’ll want to use all five of your senses when it comes to inspecting a vehicle. In addition, be sure to get a hold of the VIN for any car in which you’re interested on bidding. You can use this to request a vehicle history report, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of what potential problems may lie hidden under the surface of any particular used vehicle, be it a classic muscle car or a nearly-new truck.

About Online Car Auctions

Like much else these days, the Internet has changed everything. This is especially true of used car auctions, which can nowadays be accessed entirely online. There are a number of different websites that allow you access to an online auto auction, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.

About Adesa and Manheim

When searching for online car auctions, you’ll most likely come across two of the biggest players in the market: Adesa and Manheim. It’s important to note that both of these services require their bidders to be registered as dealers in order to participate in a vehicle auction. If you’ve decided to get a dealer’s license, then you can obviously take advantage of both Adesa and Manheim.

If you haven’t, however, then using one of these two websites to find a used car won’t be possible. Thankfully, there’s another service that’s been designed specifically for the needs of the average U.S. auto buyer. It’s called Auto Auction Mall, and it makes online car auctions available to everyone.

About Auto Auction Mall: Online Car Auctions for Everyone

Rather than requiring that bidders be registered as dealers prior to using their service, Auto Auction Mall allows users to ‘piggyback’ on their dealer’s license and those of its network of auction agents and brokers. Because of this, absolutely anyone can participate in online car auctions, enjoying the three big benefits that they offer.

The first major benefit to working with Auto Auction Mall for online car auctions is obviously the convenience. Rather than having to go from one public car auction to the next, you can have instantaneous access to a whole array of car auctions, and all from the comfort of your own home or office. Using the site is incredibly easy too, offering the same kind of experience you’d expect from any other online auctions like EBay.
The second major benefit is speed. With a whole universe of used car auctions at your fingertips, you’ll find that finding the right car for your needs is quicker than you ever thought possible. No longer will you have to wait to find a dealer who has what you want in stock; you can likely find what you’re looking for by typing in a few works and clicking a button!

But, the biggest benefit to Auto Auction Mall, and why so many others have chosen to use this service to find their next used car, is the affordability. Simply put, Auto Auction Mall empowers you to enjoy the very same kind of savings that dealers across the country use when they’re stocking their lots, accessing their vehicle auction lots. Because of this, you can enjoy prices for used cars that you once might have thought were unthinkable!

Getting Starting with Auto Auction Mall

Given the convenience, quickness and affordability of buying a used car through Auto Auction Mall, you likely want to know what it takes to get started. Thankfully, you’ll find the process is as simple as three easy steps!

• First Step: Simply click here to be taken to the sign-up page. You only need to enter a little bit of information about yourself in order to gain access to the wealth of used cars available, and register to bid.
• Second Step: Start browsing! You’re going to be absolutely amazed by the wealth of choices available at on the online auction. You’ll find everything from ordinary used passenger vehicles to classic cars and even salvage vehicles that can be mined for spare parts or rebuilt.
• Third Step: After taking a look at what’s out there, you’re sure to have found a few cars upon which you’d like to bid. If this is the case, then you’ll just need to make a deposit in order to start bidding.

And that’s it! When you compare the above process to the hassle of registering as a dealer to participate in most in-person car auctions or to the pain of buying from a dealership or an owner, it’s plainly obvious: Auto Auction Mall is the best way to purchase a used car online.

About Your Deposit

While you can begin bidding on used cars as soon as you start using Auto Auction Mall, it’s important to note that a deposit is necessary in order for any of your bids to be considered ‘active’. This deposit is known as a ‘security deposit’, and it’s incredibly easy to make and understand.

Once you’re signed into your account, you’ll see a button to “add funds” in the top-right corner of the website. Click there, and you’ll be given a few different payment options for making your security deposit.

How much should you deposit? Well, that’s up to you! In order to bid on any vehicle, you’ll need to make at least a minimum deposit of $400 or 10% of whatever you’d like your maximum bid to be, whichever happens to be greater. For example, if you wanted to bid up to $4,000 on a used car, then a $400 deposit would be sufficient. However, if you wanted to bid up to $5,000 on a used car (or cars), then the size of your deposit would need to be $500.

If you have any additional questions about the depositing process, be sure to consult the “Deposits & Pre-Bidding” section of Auto Auction Malls FAQ.

The Types of Cars Available Through Auto Auction Mall

Before you start bidding on cars through Auto Auction Mall, it’s important to understand what’s out there. There are actually a number of different categories of vehicles that you’ll find, each with their own ins and outs.

Used Cars

You came to find used cars, and used cars you shall find! Of course, the inventory of used cars runs the gamut in terms of age, price and quality. In order to understand the ‘present state’ of any given used car in which you might be interested, you’ll have to do some research.

Salvage Cars

A large number of the vehicles you’ll see on Auto Auction Mall are going to be salvage cars. In a nutshell, these are vehicles for which an insurer has paid off 75% of the value (or sometimes greater, depending upon the state) to the previous owner. These policies may have been paid out for a wide variety of reasons, including theft, fire, flood or other physical damage. You might think to avoid such vehicles, but there are actually a number of reasons you should consider purchasing one. We’ll be discussing these reasons in a following section on salvage cars.

New Cars

Believe it or not, it’s not just used and salvage cars that you’ll be able to locate through Auto Auction Mall. Sometimes new cars find their ways onto the auction block too! Most often this is due to a dealer looking to clear out old stock to make way for new inventory. However a new car ends up on the auction block though, the potential for savings is tremendous!

All Market and Models

Choice is the name of the game on Auto Auction Mall, and so you’ll be able to find cars in the above three categories across all makes, models and ages. No matter what make and model of used (or new) vehicle you’re looking for, you’re assured to find exactly what you’re looking for through Auto Auction Mall’s online car auctions!

Other

Truth be told, it’s not just four-wheeled vehicles that you’ll find through Auto Auction Mall. For example, you can also find everything from boats and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to bid on, too! Just the same as with vehicles, the potential for saving an incredible amount on something like a boat or an ATV is great too!

About “Bill of Sale” Vehicles

When browsing Auto Auction Mall, you will sometimes come across a vehicle for which there is only a “Bill of Sale” present – as in the vehicle has no Certificate of Title. When purchasing such a vehicle, you will then only have the Bill of Sale, which is merely a contract between a seller and a buyer, not a document officially sanctioned by any state’s transportation authority. Because of this, subsequent to purchasing such a vehicle, Auto Auction Mall will have to ship the vehicle to Florida, where it will be stored for a period of 90 days while a title is applied for. Due to these complications, most will find it advisable to avoid such “Bill of Sale” vehicles.

How to Find the Right Car on Auto Auction Mall

Choice is rather obviously a good thing. However, if you’re not accustomed to the volume of choice afforded by Auto Auction Mall, you may be a little daunted. That’s why you might find the following tips useful, as they’ll help you to find the right car, make the right bids, and take delivery once you’ve won a car at auction!

Set a Budget that Makes Sense

As you might expect, narrowing down your choices begins with figuring out your budget. When calculating this budget do keep in mind expenses outside of the actual vehicle upon which you’ll be bidding. For one, you’ll need to factor in the cost of transporting a used vehicle that you’ve won at auction to your doorstep. In addition, you may need to factor in the cost of some repairs in the case of a used car or the cost of a total rebuild when it comes to a salvage-title vehicle.

If you’re a little confused about what these additional expenses might be, there’s someone here to help…

Working with Your Auction Agent

When you’re bidding on cars through Auto Auction Mall, you’ll be connected directly with an auction agent. He or she can assist you in getting a ballpark figure of what additional expenses you might incur once you win a vehicle at auction. But, your auction agent can help you with much more than that!

Likely you already have some idea about what type of car you’re looking for. Perhaps you even know the specific make and model you want. Your auction agent can assist you in the search, even suggesting alternatives if you can’t find precisely what you’re looking for.

Best yet, your auction agent can find used, salvage and new cars that cannot be displayed publically online. Because of this, you can gain access to an even wider array of choices, ensuring you’ll find the right car for your needs at a price that cannot be beat.

Tips for Bidding on Cars in an Online Auction

Your auction agent will handle the whole bidding process for you and can offer advice and strategies throughout the entire process. But, there are two major things you should definitely keep in mind when bidding on used cars through Auto Auction Mall.

First, be sure to keep your budget in mind! It can be all too easy to get carried away, especially given the speed and convenience of online car auctions. Remember that there are plenty of cars out there, and that if the bidding starts getting too high for that car you’re interested in, then you can always look elsewhere. Something else is sure to pop up!

Second, be sure you’re doing your due diligence. Just as you would at an in-person auction, use every available tool at your disposal to vet any car upon which you wish to bid. Most notably, make sure you use the VIN, which will be readily available for you to see through Auto Auction Mall’s online car auctions, to request a vehicle history report.

What to Do When You’ve Won an Auction for a Car

By doing your due diligence, you will be able to find the car you’re looking for at an incredible price through Auto Auction Mall. Once you’ve won a car at auction, though, there are a few more steps that you’ll need to undertake. First, you’ll need to pay for the vehicle. Second, you’ll need to arrange for shipment and delivery of the vehicle.

You can make payment on a vehicle you’ve won at auction by using the same mechanism as when you made your initial deposit. Do note, though, that there is a limited time frame during which you can complete the payment for any vehicle you’ve won at auction. Namely, you must complete payment within two days of winning the auction.

After those two days, a $100 penalty per day will be assessed. After a full week, the vehicle will be put back on the block, and you will forfeit your security deposit. So, be sure to be prompt!

After a payment has been made and processed, Auction Auto Mall will arrange for pick-up of the vehicle from the auction site and then work with you to arrange shipping. Auction Auto Mall can handle the entire shipping and delivery process, using its years of experience and connections with many respected shippers across the country. If you wish to work with your own shipper, though, then you are free to do so. Just let us know.

For more information about paying for a car that you’ve won at auction and arranging for delivery, please consult the related section of Auto Auction Mall’s FAQ.

The Question of Salvage Cars: Are They Right For You?

Many of the cars that you will encounter through Auto Auction Mall are so-called “salvage vehicles”. To reiterate, these are vehicles for which the insurance policies have been paid out at a rate of 75% (or sometimes greater, depending upon the state) to the previous owner. There can be a number of different reasons for an insurer to do this, including theft, flood, fire, and/or other physical damage.

While you may at first think it wise to avoid such vehicles, salvage cars actually present the very best opportunity for getting an incredible deal on a used car. The reasons are manifold.

For one, consider that every state has different laws when it comes to paying out the full policy on a vehicle. For example, there are a number of states in which the cost of parts and labor need only equal 75% or more of a car’s value before an insurance company can declare the vehicle ‘totaled’. Even in states where this isn’t the case, insurance companies will oftentimes total a vehicle as a matter of convenience, say to expedite a claim. There are also incidents where a vehicle may have been stolen, its policy paid off, and then the vehicle is subsequently recovered, all while in perfectly good condition. Such vehicles receive a salvage title too!

The point is this. While some salvage cars may be total wrecks – worthy only as investments for spare parts – a great many of them can actually be made roadworthy
once again. In fact, there are even a few that might be roadworthy to begin with! Even better, if you’re a person that knows how to fix cars and intends to do, then you’re already saving an incredible amount of labor! The joy you get from and the sweat you put into repairing a salvage vehicle can literally save you thousands of dollars.

How to Rebuild a Salvage Car

When you purchase a vehicle that has a salvage title, repairs will need to be made. There are, of course, two ways that you can go about this. If you’re a gear-head who doesn’t mind getting a little greasy, then you can make the repairs to a salvage vehicle yourself. Alternatively, you can work with a qualified mechanic.

Do note two things if you go the route of making repairs to a salvage car yourself. One, you will need to keep comprehensive documentation for any and all repairs that you make, right down to the receipts for the parts you use. Most states also require before and after photos of the vehicle. Two, note that there are a few states that do not allows private individuals to rebuild salvage cars, instead requiring such vehicles to be repaired by a mechanic who is licensed to do so.

If you’re not mechanically inclined, then working with a qualified garage is your best bet when purchasing salvage vehicles through online car auctions. Here, you’ll obviously want to shop around, looking for a mechanic that can make the repairs necessary at a price that makes sense. (This is, after all, how a salvage vehicle can become not just a good deal but a great deal.)

Securing Insurance for a Car Rebuilt From Salvage

However you choose to rebuild a salvage car, the next step to take after repairs have been completed will be securing insurance for the vehicle. While it is certainly possible to get insurance for a vehicle that has a rebuilt-from-salvage title, things are a little easier said than done.

For the most part, getting basic liability insurance should be simple. However, things will get more complex if you choose to get comprehensive insurance for the car. For one, you won’t be able to secure comprehensive insurance for the vehicle from the insurer who originally totaled the vehicle. In addition, you may find that a number of different insurers are unwilling to provide comprehensive coverage to you.

There are a few different ways around this, though. First, you may find it wise to check with the insurer with whom you currently conduct business. If you have a long-standing relationship with this insurer, you will likely find that they are willing to provide coverage, although you will be at the mercy of whatever premiums they choose to charge. Second, there are a number of different insurers who specialize in providing comprehensive coverage for cars that have been rebuilt from salvage. To find such an insurer, simply conduct an Internet search.

Do note that comprehensive coverage for a vehicle that has been rebuilt from salvage can get quite costly. For this reason, really consider if it’s something that you absolutely need. Getting this will make sense if you’ve rebuilt a classic automobile into tip-top shape, but it may not make as much sense if you’ve rebuilt a ‘beater car’ that’s sole purpose is for getting around town.

Reselling Formerly Salvage Vehicles

When working with salvage vehicles, it’s important to understand that you’ll never be able to get a completely ‘clear’ title for the vehicle. Instead, a title can only be rebranded as ‘rebuilt from salvage’.

Because the salvage moniker will always follow the vehicle, you’ll find that the money you’ll be able to get for such a vehicle – should you decide to sell it – will be less than what you’d get for a similar quality vehicle that has never been designated as salvage.

Still, this isn’t something that should necessarily inform your decision to purchase a salvage vehicle at auction. In most cases, after the cost of repairs are factored in, you’ll still be getting a quality vehicle at a fraction of the price you might otherwise pay. Isn’t that what it’s all about?

Getting a New Title and Registration for a Salvage Car

Depending upon where you live, the rules for getting a rebranded title and a new registration for a car rebuilt from salvage will vary. Below, you’ll find a general overview of each state’s notable rules and regulations for rebuilding salvage vehicles along with a link where you can learn more about the process.

Alabama

In order to rebuild a car from salvage in the state of Alabama, you must be licensed as a rebuilder. To get this licensure and to rebuild a car yourself, you must pay $10,000 for a surety bond. There are a number of fees and forms that must be filed with the DMV, as well. To learn more, visit this link.

Alaska

When registering a vehicle that has been rebuilt from salvage, the state of Alaska requires that a number of different forms, including a Reconstructed Vehicle Affidavit (Form 829), be filed along with the relevant fees. In addition, the vehicle must be inspected by a DMV representative or a law enforcement official. To learn more, visit this link.

Arizona

When registering a vehicle in Arizona that has been rebuilt from salvage, it is important to note that an inspection conducted by the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) is necessary. Depending upon the work required, you may be required to get a Level I, II or III inspection. For more information about this and registering a formerly salvage vehicle in Arizona, visit this link.

Arkansas

The state’s Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) requires a number of different things when registering a vehicle that has been reconstructed from salvage. Most notably, you will be required to submit am “Affidavit of Reconstruction for a Salvage Motor Vehicle”, which must include receipts and documentation for all repairs made to the vehicle. To learn more, visit this link.

California

As with other vehicles, the state of California requires that cars rebuilt from salvage be in compliance with environmental and emissions regulations. In addition, the vehicle must be submitted for inspection to either the DMV or the California Highway Patrol (CHP). In addition, you will need to pay for an inspection of the vehicle’s history. Learn more by visiting this page.

Colorado

After you have completed repairs to a salvage vehicle in Colorado, there are several forms you will need to file with the DMV. In addition, note that the state of Colorado requires that the words “Rebuilt From Salvage” be etched into the car, typically somewhere near the driver’s door. To learn more about this and the forms required, go here.

Connecticut

When it comes to salvage vehicles, the state of Connecticut is rather scrupulous. Like most states, you will be required to submit documentation and receipts for all repairs made to the vehicle. In addition, you must present photographic evidence of the repairs as they were made. To learn more about registering a formerly salvage car in Connecticut, visit this page.

Delaware

Prior to obtaining a new registration and title for a formerly salvage vehicle, you must sub-mit the car for inspection. Note that inspections are only conducted on certain days and at certain places in the state of Delaware and that these inspections are quite comprehensive. During the inspection, you will be required to present photographic evidence of the repairs made. To learn more about this and getting a title and registration, go here.

Florida

Like other states, Florida requires that cars rebuilt from salvage be inspected and that all repairs be documented. In addition, a $40 fee is payable during the inspection. Should the vehicle fail its first inspection, every subsequent inspection will incur a fee of $20. To learn more about the inspection process and securing a rebuilt title in Florida, visit this helpful guide.

Georgia

For the most part, the rebuilding of salvage vehicles in the state of Georgia is handled by those who are licensed to do so. However, an individual is permitted to rebuild up to two salvage vehicles per year. In both cases, the vehicle must be submitted for inspection, which costs $100, and you must submit a “Request for Inspection of a Rebuilt Motor Vehicle Form” to the DMV. To learn more, visit this page.

Hawaii

Unlike many other states, Hawaii does not allow private individuals to rebuild cars from salvage. However, the state does allow for mechanics to rebuild vehicles from salvage, provided they are licensed to do so. For a list of mechanics in the Hawaii who can rebuild a vehicle from salvage, please see the next section.

Idaho

Generally speaking, the state of Idaho requires that cars rebuilt from salvage must be re-stored using original parts. If doing this, it is possible to get a new title and registration for the vehicle, making it legal to drive the formerly salvage car on Idaho’s roadways. To learn more about this process, as well as securing insurance, go here.

Illinois

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) handles inspections for cars rebuilt from salvage. In cases where the vehicle is eight years old or newer (based upon the model year), you will also be required to submit the vehicle for inspection by the state police. To learn more about both inspection processes, as well as what documentation will be required, please visit this page.

Indiana

After you have restored a salvage vehicle in the state of Indiana, you can apply for a rebuilt title from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicle (IN BMV). This will require submitting both Form 37964 (an Affidavit) and Form 44049 (an Application for a Certificate of Title). Both of these forms can be downloaded here. For more information about the process, visit this website.

Iowa

The process for registering a formerly salvage vehicle is the same as registering an ordinary vehicle in the state of Iowa. However, you will need to pay $30 and submit the vehicle for inspection prior to applying. In addition, do note that if you will be repairing more than six salvage vehicles in a given year, then you will need to be registered as a vehicle recycler. To learn more, visit this page.

Kansas

Local municipal treasuries handle the titling of rebuilt-from-salvage vehicles in the state of Kansas. Prior to getting this title, though, you will need to have the vehicle inspected by the DMV, submitted receipts documenting repairs made, and secured at least liability insurance for the vehicle. To learn more about the process, visit this page.

Kentucky

After making repairs to a salvage vehicle, you will need to do two things in order to secure a new title. First, you will need to complete an “Affidavit of Motor Vehicle Assembled from Wrecked or Salvaged Motor Vehicles (Form TC 96-215)”, which can be downloaded here. In addition, you will be required to submit an ordinary request for a title and / or registration. To learn more, please visit this site.

Louisiana

The process for getting a new title for a car that has been rebuilt from salvage in the state of Louisiana can be a little complex, requiring quite a bit of documentation, forms and fees. The Louisiana Department of Public Safety Office of Motor Vehicles helpfully outlines the process, though. Go here to see what will be required.

Maine

If you are seeking to rebuild a vehicle from salvage in Maine, note that you will be required to keep detailed documentation of all repairs made to the vehicle. In addition, Maine requires that all vehicles that have been rebuilt from salvage be stamped as such on the physical vehicle. To learn more about registering and titling a rebuilt car in Maine, visit this page.

Maryland

In the state of Maryland, the state police handle the inspection of rebuilt salvage vehicles and charge a $25 fee to do so. Once this inspection has been passed, the vehicle can then be titled and registered by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) through the normal registration process. To learn more about this, please visit this website.

Massachusetts

The first step to re-titling and re-registering a formerly salvage vehicle in Massachusetts is submitting said vehicle for an inspection with the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). To do this, you will need to complete an “Application for Inspection of a Salvaged Motor Vehicle” form along with receipts documenting all repairs. To learn more about the process, visit this website.

Michigan

The inspection of rebuilt salvage vehicles in Michigan is handled by locally licensed mechanics and other entities. You can find a list of places to go here. Note that the inspection costs $100. Provided the vehicle passes inspection, it can be registered with the DMV by submitting a Salvage Vehicle Recertification Form, which can be obtained from local law enforcement. To learn more, visit this site.

Minnesota

After restoring a formerly salvage car in Minnesota, the process for obtaining a new title and registration is straightforward. To Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS), you must complete and submit a “Declaration of Reconstruction / Special Assembly”, receipts for all repairs and parts, and allow the vehicle to be inspected. To learn more about the process, go here.

Mississippi

The state of Mississippi handles the titling and registration of vehicles that have been rebuilt from salvage much the same as it does ordinary new and used vehicles. The only difference is that the vehicle must be inspected prior to a new title and registration being granted. To learn more, you can visit the Department of Revenue for the State of Mississippi.

Missouri

Once all necessary repairs have been made to a formerly salvage vehicle, the process for obtaining a new title and registration is straightforward. Simply have the vehicle inspected, and then bring the report along with the current salvage title, receipts for all parts and labor, and all inspection paperwork to a local branch of the Department of Missouri Motor Vehicle Division. To learn more, go here.

Montana

Montana is especially scrupulous when it comes to the inspection of cars that have been rebuilt from salvage. In addition, the paperwork involved in applying for a rebuilt title is quite detailed and involved. To see the Application for a Salvage Certificate Vehicle, go here. To learn more about the process for obtaining a new title and registration, go here.

Nebraska

Once a salvage vehicle has been restored, either by yourself or a mechanic, you will need to submit it for inspection by a representative of the DMV. Once this inspection has been passed, you will receive a new title that certifies the vehicle has been previously salvage. Obtaining a new registration is the same as for ordinary used and new vehicles. To learn more, visit this website.

Nevada

Unlike in many other states, Nevada requires that a salvage vehicle be inspected before restoration in addition to after. This requires bringing the vehicle to a local DMV branch and submitting an “Authorization for Vehicle Restoration” form. After repairs have been made, the vehicle will be inspected again, and you will need to submit a “Certificate of Inspection / Affidavit of Vehicle Construction” form. To learn more, visit the Nevada DMV here.

New Hampshire

In order to get a rebuilt title and register a formerly salvage vehicle in New Hampshire, you will need to have the vehicle inspected by a DMV branch. If you get a temporary plate, the vehicle can be driven to the inspection site, otherwise it must be transported by flatbed. After the inspection and fees are paid, a number of other forms must be completed, and the vehicle must be given a salvage decal. To learn more, visit the New Hampshire DMV’s guide here.

New Jersey

To get a restored salvage vehicle titled and registered in New Jersey, it’s important that you keep throughout photographic and written documentation of all repairs made. Once restored, the state will inspect the vehicle to ensure its roadworthiness, and they will make sure that no components of the vehicle have been stolen. To learn more about the process, which can be quite complex, consult this guide provided by the New Jersey DMV.

New Mexico

The process for getting a rebuilt from salvage car roadworthy once again in New Mexico is a straightforward repair. You will need to submit a Salvage Vehicle Repair Report to the DMV and allow the vehicle to be inspected. Provided that the vehicle is deemed roadworthy, you will follow the normal processes for registering a car and obtaining a title. To learn more, go here.

New York

Before a vehicle that has been rebuilt from salvage can be legally operated on New York’s roadways, it must first pass a number of inspections. This includes an inspection conducted by the DMV Division of Investigators Auto Theft Unit, which will verify that no stolen parts were used in the reconstruction. In addition to this, a number of different forms and fees must be submitted. To learn more, visit this guide provided by the New York State DMV.

North Carolina

Like many other states, North Carolina requires forms and vehicle inspection prior to allowing a formerly salvage vehicle to be operated on its motorways. The whole process is overseen by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, and you can learn about through their website here.

North Dakota

The North Dakota Department of Transportation oversees the entire process for titling and registering a vehicle that has been rebuilt from salvage. To complete the process successfully, you will need to complete a vehicle inspection and subsequently submit a Certificate of Vehicle Inspection with the DOT. Otherwise the process is similar to what you would go through for a regular used or new vehicle. To learn more, please visit the NDDOT here.

Ohio

When preparing to get your formerly salvage vehicle street legal once again, the first step is to have the vehicle inspected by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Provided that the vehicle passes this inspection, you will then take your inspection form along with your stamped salvage title to a local title office. There you can apply for a new title and registration for the vehicle. To learn more, you can visit Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles here.

Oklahoma

In order to get your rebuilt-from-salvage vehicle back on Oklahoma motorways, you will first need to have the vehicle inspected. To do this, you will submit an OK Salvage Inspection Request (Form 788-B) to the tax commission. Thereafter an inspection date will be set. Provided the inspection is passed, you will then be able to title and register the vehicle as you would an ordinary new or used car. To learn more, go here.

Oregon

Like most other state, Oregon will require that you submit your salvage vehicle that has been restored for inspection prior to it being deemed roadworthy once again. There are also a number of other forms and fees involved, all of which you can learn about through Oregon’s website for the Department of Motor Vehicles here.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania In the state of Pennsylvania, a number of different forms will need to be completed and filed with PennDOT before a rebuilt salvage vehicle can be operated on the roadways once again. Though some of these forms are available online, many are only available through PennDOT stations. In addition to the forms, you will also need to have your vehicle inspected, and you will also need to present color photographs of the vehicle before and after repairs. To learn more, go here.

Rhode Island

The DMV oversees the registration and titling of all formerly salvage vehicles in Rhode Island. Once repairs have been completed, you will need to present your vehicle to a local DMV branch along with the requisite forms and photographs of the vehicle before repairs were made. In addition, you will need to present all of your receipts for repairing the car, inclusive of those for both parts and labor. Note that Rhode Island requires that a licensed salvage rebuilder conduct all repairs. To learn more, you can visit this link.

South Carolina

The state of South Carolina allows individuals to rebuild salvage cars and obtain rebuilt-salvage titles for those cars so that they can be operated on roadways once again. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles oversees the entire process and requires that a number of different forms be filed and fees paid before a “rebuilt-salvage title” can be issues. To learn more about the process, visit the official website for the SCDMV here.

South Dakota

In order to apply for a rebuilt title in South Dakota, you will need to complete and file an “Affidavit for Rebuilt Vehicles” with the Highway Patrol or the Department of Revenue and Regulation. Either of these departments will also oversee an inspection of your rebuilt vehicle. If that inspection is passed, you can complete a “Application for Motor Vehicle Title & Registration” with your local country treasurer. To learn more, you can visit this website.

Tennessee

If you have repaired a vehicle with a salvage certificate in Tennessee, the process for getting a rebuilt title is fairly straightforward. You will first need to submit an “Application for Motor Vehicle Identification Certification” with the Department of Revenue. Following an inspection that’s passed successfully, the vehicle’s title will be rebranded as “rebuilt-salvage” and you will then be able to register the car through the normal channels. To learn more, consult this guide.

Texas

Once you have successfully completed repairs on a salvage-titled vehicle, you will need to head to your local tax assessor. There, you will need to file two forms: a “Rebuilt Affidavit” and a “Application for Texas Certificate of Title”, which can be accessed here. In addition, you will need to demonstrate ownership of the vehicle, show that it is insured, and submit the vehicle for an inspection. Provided everything checks out, the car will be issued a rebuilt title and a new registration. To learn more, go here.

Utah

Unlike many other states, Utah is especially strict when it comes to its rules and regulations for cars rebuilt from salvage. For this reason, it’s definitely advisable that you contact Utah State Tax Commission Division of Motor Vehicles before embarking on repairs to a salvage car. You can learn the nuts and bolts of these Utah salvage car rules and regulations here, and you can also find contact information for the relevant authorities.

Vermont

In order to get a vehicle that has been rebuilt from salvage roadworthy once again in the state of Vermont, you will need to do several things. Prior to submitting any forms or documentation, you will need to have the DMV or law enforcement run the VIN to ensure that vehicle has not been stolen. After this you will submit a “Rebuilt/Salvage Title Application” along with a $35 fee to the DMV. To Learn more about the process, visit this website.

Virginia

When seeking to repair a car that has been issued a salvage title in Virginia, it’s important to note whether the vehicle has been given the “non-repairable” designation. If it has, then this vehicle cannot be repaired or rebuilt; it can only be used for spare parts. In cases where the vehicle can be repaired, note that the state of Virginia requires that a mechanic who is licensed to do so conduct all repairs. To learn more about this, please consult the Virginia DMV’s guide here.

Washington

As elsewhere, salvage vehicles cannot be operated on Washington roadways until they have received a “rebuilt-salvage” title. To get this, you will first need to submit the vehicle (after repairs have been made) to the Washington State Patrol (WSP). To find out where you can present your vehicle for inspection, go here. If the vehicle passes the inspection, you will then receive a rebuilt title, which will allow you to register the vehicle through normal channels. To learn more, go here.

West Virginia

Before beginning repairs on a salvage vehicle, the first step you must take is obtaining a package of forms for repairing and retitling a salvage vehicle from the DMV. This packet of information can be picked up at a local DMV office, or you can have one mailed to you by calling (304) 558-3900. This packet will outline everything that you need to do in order to get a formerly salvage car street legal in Washington once again. For more information, please visit this guide provided by the West Virginia DMV.

Wisconsin

The state of Wisconsin allows salvage cars to be operated on its roadways only after necessary repairs have been made and the vehicle has passed inspection. These inspections are conducted by State Patrol Salvage Inspectors, and will determine whether or not the vehicle contains stolen parts and has in fact been repaired to roadworthy condition. To learn more about getting an inspection and filing the proper forms and fees, please consult this guide provided by the DOT.

Wyoming

To begin the process of rebuilding a car from salvage in Wyoming, you will first need to obtain, complete and submit a “Branded Title Disclosure”. Once this form has been approved, you will be mailed a rebuilt-from-salvage decal that must be placed on the car’s windshield. From here, you will then need to submit the vehicle for inspection by local law enforcement before your vehicle’s title can be re-branded. To learn more about this process, please consult Wyoming’s DOT here.

Finding a Quality Mechanic In Your States

If you possess the mechanical skill, then it is possible for you yourself to rebuild a car from salvage. However, do note that some states require that an individual who is repairing a car from salvage be licensed to do so (see above).

Regardless of whether you can or cannot repair a vehicle from salvage (or an ordinary used vehicle bought at auction), you may find it wise to work with an experienced mechanic. Below, you’ll find contact information for several qualified mechanics in each state, particularly those with experience in rebuilding salvage cars.