What does salvage title mean?

Understand salvage, rebuilt, flood and junk title risks before buying a used car.

Salvage title basics

A salvage title usually means the vehicle was declared a major loss by an insurer or authority. Rules vary by state.

Why it affects value

Salvage or rebuilt history can affect resale value, financing, insurance and export/import decisions.

How to protect yourself

Check the VIN, compare title documents, inspect the vehicle and avoid pressure to pay before verifying the history.