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Utah drivers love to save money and a salvaged SUV may seem like a good deal. When you compare the prices of a salvaged SUV and a brand new one side-by-side, you can see how you can save a bundle. But you need to be smart about it or you could get burned with a really bad deal.
The biggest problem with buying a salvaged SUV in Utah – or any salvage vehicle – is “the mystery factor”. It can be difficult to discover the true history of a salvage car simply because there are so many ways a vehicle can be designated as “salvage”. In some cases, the damage can be extensive, while in other scenarios, damage that is merely cosmetic can get a SUV labeled as “salvaged”.
Of course, you can run a vehicle check through Carfax or a similar service. This will provide some information and, if you’re lucky, you’ll get a complete picture of the vehicle’s history. However, only a complete and thorough inspection will tell you everything you need to know.
So buying a salvage vehicle can be risky. It’s important to know what you’re getting into or to have someone experienced to give you some advice before you write the check.
Another thing to consider is that you may have difficulty getting insurance in Utah for a salvaged SUV, or you may have to pay a larger premium to get the vehicle insured. Some insurance companies will only insure a salvage vehicle for a hefty rate, and some may only insure a salvaged SUV for a fraction of its replacement value. Be sure to ask these questions of an insurance company before you lock yourself into a policy that doesn’t meet your needs.
If you’re considering fixing up a salvaged SUV for resale in Utah, be sure to do your homework. Depending on the damage that needs to be repaired, you may, or may not, be able to get your asking price. Buyers are often wary of salvage vehicles that have been repaired, for a number of good reasons. Here are just a few:
- A salvaged SUV can’t be valued like a regular vehicle because each one has a different history. For example, online sites, like BlueBook.com won’t value a SUV with a salvage title.
- Salvage vehicles are sometimes repaired with sub-par replacement parts. It’s often difficult to see these parts as many of them may not be easily visible.
- Once a vehicle has been branded as a “salvage” vehicle, it is designated as a salvage car for the rest of its life. This means that anyone buying the repaired vehicle – even if it has been restored to 100% running condition – will have to deal with the insurance and resale problems that go along with that designation.
Even with all the caution you should exercise when buying a salvaged SUV, it can be a good deal. If you plan to use it as a basic, everyday vehicle in Utah, a salvaged SUV can be a great deal.
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