Do you have a damaged vehicle? Are you struggling to sell your car? Whether your car is damaged or you just want to sell, car salvage dealers want it.
There have been over 3.8 million used car transactions in the UK during 2021. One of the best ways to get value for your car is by contacting a salvage dealer. Whether your vehicle is totalled, requires expensive repair, or you want to sell fast, it is a viable option.
Here is a comprehensive car salvage guide to getting started.
What Is a Salvage Title?
A salvage title is what your car receives when it is damaged. Usually, it is when your vehicle insurance has been involved or an accident happened. The purpose of a salvage title is to prevent unsafe cars from being on the road.
There are different salvage titles in the UK, depending on the extent of the damage. You might also see category X sometimes, which indicates that a vehicle does not have damage from a salvage dealer.
Category A is when your damaged vehicle is severe, and it needs to be scrapped because there are no parts of value or there are legal issues. Category B is also dangerous and uneconomical repair, but they can be bought for parts from a licensed salvage dealer.
Category C is when a repair is possible, but it may be more costly than the car’s value, but a salvage dealer can buy it. Category D is when a repair is possible and economical.
Cars get a salvage title if they are totalled, but also for other reasons. For example, they may get extreme weather damage from flooding.
Why Sell to a Salvage Dealer?
Around 27 million cars in the world reach the end of their useful lives each year. Even if your vehicle was not damaged, it might be at the end of its life.
Signs it is time to let go of your car include when you are regularly experiencing issues, and repairs are costly. Maybe it failed its MOT, has high miles, or it is old and not selling. You do not need to worry, as a salvage dealer still wants it.
However, selling to a salvage dealer allows the parts or car to be recycled in the best way possible to utilise the vehicle. They may be able to revive your vehicle or use the parts. It also offers value for money for you, as they deal with the car, and you get paid for it.
A licensed salvage dealer also ensures disposal of a damaged vehicle is legal. They can guide you through all the steps you need to take.
Guide to Car Salvage
Letting go of a car can be difficult, especially if you have fond memories or it was damaged in unfortunate circumstances. However, it will free you of the costly financial commitment and free up space where you live. You can also invest what you are paid in another car, which is safe to drive.
Sometimes an auction or your vehicle insurance will deal with car salvage. But where do you begin with car salvage? And how do you get the most value for money?
1. Prepare Damaged Vehicle Documents
Make sure you hunt out your car’s documentation for proof of ownership. You can consult with the car salvage dealer for other ways to prove ownership if you cannot find your car ownership document, also known as a V5. The salvage dealer may ask for more proof of ownership, such as your current vehicle insurance certificate or a sales invoice from where you bought your car.
Also, find as much information about your car as possible, such as the year, mileage, engine condition, and damage. It helps to get accurate quotes from salvage dealers.
2. Find a Auto Salvage Dealer
Search for a car salvage dealer where you live or who covers most of the UK. You want to make sure they can take the car. Sometimes they are known as a car scrap dealer or a car scrappage service.
Always check online reviews and that they are licensed to take your damaged vehicle. It is also worth comparing quotes, but always check there are no hidden fees, and it is an all-inclusive service.
3. Prepare for Car Salvage Negotiation
A car salvage dealer should be transparent about costs, but it is essential to check. Also, ask for a written agreement. It is illegal to accept cash for damaged vehicles, so they should explain how the bank transfer will work.
You can also negotiate other vital details, such as pick up times and who will inform the DVLA of the car salvage exchange.
4. Pick Up Preparation
Make sure you allocate time to prepare your damaged vehicle for pick up. Remove any valuables from your car and other personal items that you want to keep. Always check under seats, the boot, and all pockets.
Also, consider what you want to do with your license plates, and apply for V778 retention. Take any final photos with your car and prepare to say goodbye.
5. Complete Paperwork
Be sure to confirm what paperwork you have to fill in. Also, if your vehicle insurance is not already involved, notify them. Also, confirm the method of payment for your car.
6. Goodbye Car, Hello Money
Once you have your free pick up or drop off, it is time to say goodbye. You will receive a secure payment for your unwanted or damaged vehicle, which you can then enjoy! Your vehicle insurance needs to be cancelled as soon as it is off the road too.
Time for Auto Salvage
Are you ready for car salvage? Look no further than the Motor Salvage Group to take care of your undamaged or damaged vehicle. Based in Scotland, we accept all types of vehicles across the UK.
We also offer free pick up or drop off, secure payment and a legal paper trail, so your car salvage experience is as simple as possible. Get a free instant payment today to get started.
