Key Questions to Ask Before Buying a Salvage Car

Although salvage cars provide buyers with an opportunity to get vehicles in good condition at a giveaway price, buying one without complete information can spell disaster or total loss. Before dipping your toes in the salvage vehicles market, you need to perform due diligence. Asking the right questions can improve the chances of you getting cars that still have a lot to offer. In this article, we will look at some such questions that you must ask before buying a salvage car. Let’s begin!

What is the mileage on the odometer? 

Mileage is a good indicator of the overall condition of the car. If the odometer shows a really high number, it can be assumed that the car has lived a long and active life, but on the plus side, it can be purchased at a highly depreciated value. Many people base the value of the car on its age. Although that is one of the key factors, the value of a car is also based on how many miles it has left in it.

Is the seller reputable?

Long story short, choosing the best sellers enables you to find the best salvage car deals. All leading auto auction houses and websites offer all the required information upfront, rather than keeping you guessing. You can choose the top salvage car sellers by going through online reviews, and talking to their past customers. The thoroughness of the selection will help ensure that you’re buying a car from a trusted seller. 

Can you get the car inspected?

Some salvage yards only offer images of the car you want to buy, and many also don’t refrain from going as far as making minor cosmetic adjustments to increase its apparent value. Make sure that the auction platform or website you choose gives you the option to get the cars inspected by a professional, who can give you an estimate of the repair cost, allowing you to decide whether the vehicle is worth your money and within your budget.

Does the car have a clean history?

Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure to check vital factors such as whether the car has been involved in any accidents in the past and how well it was maintained. Knowing the vehicle history allows you to understand what it has been through, which also decides its true market value. Vehicle history also lists previous owners and the number of services that the car underwent. A car that has been regularly serviced is more likely to be in a better condition.

Bottom line

Buying a salvage car may seem confusing, especially to first-time buyers, but with the right approach, you can expect to get an unmatched bang for your buck. Just be careful, and ask all the right questions before making a purchase. Before finalizing your bid, consider aspects such as shipping costs and the reputation of the auction house before making the final decision. There are a number of trusted websites hosting online USA salvage car auction sales, where you can find amazing deals on all types of vehicles.