 | Richard Smith has been in the Auto Body Industry for 26 years. He is ASE Certified Master Collision Tech, an I-Car Platinum Tech, and an I-Car Instructor. He and His wife own and operate Sharp's Auto Body & Collision Inc. located at 202 North Elm St. in Pittsburg, Kansas. He is a father of 5 children, Ex Military E-6 Staff SGT. and is active in his home Church. The one thing he enjoys doing is educating the public about the safety and proper repair of automobiles, no matter if it is a vehicle that has been in a collision, a small dent, or a complete restoration. The shop is always equipped with a skilled professional to handle your auto needs. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2011-03-01 10:26:00
Buying wrecked or pre-salvaged vehicles...what you should know - part 1
Question: Is buying a wrecked or pre-salvaged vehicle an economical or good decision?
Answer: There are some things you should consider before buying. Are you going to fix it yourself, or pay someone else to fix it? If you are going to have someone fix it, make sure they have the certifications and knowledge to do so. These certifications and training should include but are not limited to training on structural damage. This means this person or business knows exactly how to take apart and put this vehicle back to OEM specs. Specifically, “OEM Specs” means that if you where involved in an accident, the vehicle would collapse the way it was manufactured to when it was released to sell new. It is also important that the person have proper training in welding. If not, the welds could break in an accident causing it not to perform properly. On newer vehicles, the person restoring would need proper training on installing air bags and working on electrical components.
It is also important to consider the cost. Have the person doing the repairs go and take a look at the vehicle before you buy it so you can get an idea of what it is going to cost you for the repair. Salvage bids are getting higher and buy the time you purchase the vehicle and then pay someone to repair it or even do it yourself, it may cost just as much as buying the vehicle on a good used car lot.
Another consideration of salvage vehicles is one of resale. You will also want to keep in mind that a salvage vehicle has a salvage title. A salvage title can decrease the value of a vehicle by as much as 40%. This will not effect you until you try to sell or trade the vehicle off or if you have had an accident and need repairs. In the case of an accident, the insurance company may decrease the value of the vehicle with the allowance for your repairs which can put you in a very tough place.
Over all, I would think very seriously before investing in a salvage vehicle if your intent is to save money. Chances are it will cost much more than you had intended.
