If you are thinking of buying a car from an auction in Los Angeles or anywhere else, you should be aware of its actual salvage value so that you can judge whether the bidding price is reasonable. In this blog, we will discuss how to calculate the salvage value of a car.
What is Salvage Value?
The term ‘salvage value’ refers to an asset’s remaining value at the end of its useful life after accounting for depreciation. It is also called scrap value, residual value, and disposal value. An asset’s salvage value is what a seller anticipates getting in return for selling the car after its useful life has passed. In case of vehicles, the term ‘salvage value’ usually applies to the value of a vehicle that has been given a ‘salvage’ title by insurers. These are vehicles that have been through accidents or written off due to poor conditions beyond repair. These are also called total loss titles, as repair costs of such cars are usually above a certain threshold of salvage value.
How to Calculate the Salvage Value of a Car
Calculating the salvage value of a car is dependent on the state laws and policies of the insurance companies. For the lifetime of the car, depreciation will occur at a predictable rate, just like with ordinary used autos. Generally, 70-80% depreciation factor is applied by insurance companies. By this calculation, the salvage value can be determined by:
Salvage value = Initial Price X 0.25
For example, if a car is bought at $4000 then its salvage value will be around $1000. If the repair costs are above this value, it will be declared as salvage by the insurance companies. But there are many other factors that affect the calculation of salvage value by the insurers.
Salvage Value Variable Factors To Consider
Here are the key variable factors that influences the value of salvage cars by insurers:
- Condition of the car including the number of years and frequency of use
- Mileage
- Model
- Make
- Type and level of damage (Mechanical and cosmetic damages)
- Wear and tear
Keep in mind, the bidding value of the salvage car also changes when it is listed in an auction. Depending on whether parts or the whole car is put for sale, and the demand for the vehicle, the bidding value may be marked up. From a seller’s perspective, a basic knowledge of salvage value is important to know to get a good deal when selling to junkyards or setting a minimum bid value in auctions. From a buyer’s perspective, it is important to know the salvage value and other factors so that you can know whether the bidding price is justified for buying the car within your budget.
Conclusion
Now that you know about the salvage value, the factors, and the way to calculate the salvage value, you are better prepared for buying your dream car in an auction in Los Angeles or anywhere else. All you need to do now to buy a salvage title car for sale is to register on a leading car auction platform with clear and transparent policies and an extensive inventory of cars and start bidding.