Salvage Title Explained
What a salvage title means, how rebuilt titles work, and everything you need to know before buying or selling a branded-title vehicle.
Title Stages Explained
Rules for Selling a Salvage or Rebuilt Vehicle
State-by-State Salvage Rules
Salvage Title Guide by State
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you insure a salvage title car?
A salvage title car cannot be driven legally and typically cannot be insured for standard coverage. Once repaired and re-titled as rebuilt, you can usually get liability insurance — but many carriers refuse comprehensive or collision coverage on rebuilt titles.
Can you get a loan on a rebuilt title car?
Most traditional lenders and banks will not finance a rebuilt title vehicle. You may find specialty lenders or credit unions willing to lend, but expect higher rates and lower loan-to-value ratios.
Is a rebuilt title the same as a salvage title?
No. A salvage title means the vehicle is totaled and cannot be driven. A rebuilt (or restored) title means the vehicle passed a state inspection after repairs and is legal to drive and register again.
How much less is a rebuilt title worth?
Rebuilt title vehicles typically sell for 20–40% less than a comparable clean-title vehicle. The exact discount depends on the severity of the original damage, quality of repairs, and local market demand.
Do I have to disclose a salvage title when selling?
Yes — in every state. Selling a vehicle without disclosing a salvage or rebuilt title is fraud. Document the disclosure in a bill of sale signed by both parties.
What triggers a salvage title?
A salvage title is issued when an insurance company declares a vehicle a total loss — typically when repair costs exceed 70–80% of the vehicle's actual cash value, depending on the state.