Finding and fixing salvage cars can be a great way to earn some extra income. It might also be your chance to own your dream vehicle within a very tight budget. Whatever is the case, there are plenty of motor vehicles out there to choose from. However, you need extra vigilance! Just as you perform research to purchase a new or used vehicle, you should also do extensive study to buy the most suitable salvage car. Today, I’ll share the top five salvage cars you should consider for your next ride.
But wait! Are you completely aware about the salvage vehicles? Here’s what you need to know before you decide on purchasing one.
What Are Salvage Cars?
Any car labelled with a “salvage title” means that it has sustained so much damage that it’s unfit for driving on the road. The insurer figures out that it will not be feasible to repair because the total damage is far higher than the current value of the vehicle. So, the company declares it a “total loss”. You might have heard the term “scrap car” as well, but a salvage car is different. Scrap cars are extremely damaged vehicles that get a permit for dismantling. On the other hand, salvage cars do not sustain enough damage to be dismantled. Instead, they can be fixed and made legal and roadworthy again.
Before Buying A Salvage Car
When you’re out to buy a good salvage car, the last thing you want is to end up with a completely unrepairable vehicle – or worse, a stolen vehicle. To avoid such instances, here are a few more things you must know before making your purchase:
Vehicle Categories
There are four different categories explaining the extent of damage a vehicle has sustained. Two of these categories pertain to scrap cars while the other two are for salvage cars. When you’re considering buying a salvage car, it’s crucial you know which category it belongs to. It might affect insurance costs and various other aspects too.
Category A
A Category A vehicle is a lost cause because it cannot get back on the road. The car has sustained so much damage that it must be scrapped. You cannot even get salvageable parts.
Category B
These cars have sustained too much damage and they must be scrapped as well. However, unlike Category A vehicle, these will have salvageable parts that you can later use in other vehicles.
Category S
A Category S vehicle is known to be structurally repairable, which means it can be repaired and made fit for the road again. However, repairs are very extensive, and the costs become so high that they surpass the car’s original value.
Category N
These types of vehicles are non-structurally repairable, meaning you can repair and make them suitable for the road. Category N cars need significant repairs just like Category S vehicles, but the costs won’t exceed the value of the car.
When you’re hunting for salvage cars, focus on searching for Category S or Category N vehicles only.
Other Important Considerations
Before you buy a salvage vehicle, you should know exactly what you’ll be getting into. Do in-depth research about the kind of repairs that you’ll need to carry out and how much will it cost you to buy used car parts. Also, inquire about the car’s history, whether directly from the dealer or perform an online vehicle check. Sometimes, stolen recovered vehicles get salvage titles, so the data check will be very handy to find this out.
As you now know what you should look for when purchasing a salvage car, you should be able to find the right one for yourself. Here are the top salvage car makes and models to help you narrow down your choices:
The Best Salvage Cars Out There
Some cars remain so popular throughout the years that they’re always in demand, whether they’re new, used, or even with a salvage title. The reason is these vehicles are so well-built and reliable that they can run perfectly even after repairs. Usually, their parts are widely available, and repairs are cheap, making them the most economical to fix.
Here are five models that most people opt for, even when they’re completely damaged and given a salvage title:
1. Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta was the best-selling new car in the U.K last year thanks to its enjoyable drive, amazing interior space, and great build quality. The Fiesta is at the top of our list for salvage vehicles because of its reliability. Other Ford models follow the Fiesta’s tracks as well, such as the Ford Focus and the Mustang.
2. Volkswagen Golf
Originated in the 1970s, the Volkswagen Golf has had a long, famed history. This timeless nameplate has been among the U.K.’s top-selling family hatchbacks, especially because of its powerful engine, high-quality interior and excellent drive. People are opting for the older and even salvage models, because of its superb interior and drivability.
3. Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa is an excellent car that offers exceptional value for money. This is the reason it is an extremely popular used car in the U.K (last year’s statistics put it on the fourth spot). Its stylish design, cutting-edge driving dynamics and premium tech make it one of the most in-demand salvage cars, as well.
4. BMW 3 Series
This well-known, premium model has always had a massive fan base, primarily due to the car’s luxury features and great fuel economy. It’s a very popular salvage title here because it comes at a much cheaper price than the brand-new version, and once repaired correctly, the vehicle can run as good as new.
5. Audi A3
The Audi A3 is also another highly popular option for salvage car buyers. People have always loved Audi vehicles, and the A3 is no exception. This small family car boasts a wonderful interior design and exceptional build quality. Its subcompact design makes it cheaper to repair and insure than other similar vehicles.
