Selling a salvage-title car
A salvage brand means an insurer once declared the car a total loss. It can’t be registered for the road until it’s repaired and passes a state inspection. But it can absolutely be sold.
We’re an independent guide, not the buyer. Offers come from Peddle, a nationwide car-buying service, and we may earn a referral fee when you sell through our form.
What moves the offer
- Salvage vs rebuilt
- A rebuilt title (repaired and inspected) is road-legal and worth more than a salvage title.
- Why it was branded
- Collision, flood, hail and theft recovery carry different risks for the next owner.
- Current condition
- Has it been repaired since? Does it run?
Say this on the offer form
Offers are adjusted at pickup when the car doesn’t match the description. Be specific about:
- The exact title brand on your paperwork
- What caused the total loss
- Repairs made since
- Whether it runs and drives
Per Peddle, an updated offer is made when there’s a discrepancy, and you can decline it. Don’t sign the title until you’re happy with the number in front of you.
Worth knowing
Look up the title history at vehiclehistory.gov (NMVTIS) before you describe it. If you’re not sure which brand applies, the record will tell you.
Paperwork
You’ll need the title in your name, a photo ID, and every key you have. If there’s a loan on the car, read selling a car with a loan first. Can’t find the title? Start with our no-title guide. After pickup, follow the after-you-sell checklist.
Questions
Can a salvage title go back to clean?
No. After repair and inspection it can become rebuilt, but it never reverts to clean.
- NMVTIS vehicle history check: vehiclehistory.gov
Not quite your situation?
Find out what it’s worth today.
About a dozen questions, an offer on screen, and no obligation to take it. If you accept, Peddle’s towing partner comes to you and pays by check at pickup.