from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you’ve restored your car but still have a salvage title, you won’t be able to purchase auto insurance from GEICO.
Can you buy GEICO full-coverage insurance for rebuilt titles?
However, drivers who want one of these advanced coverage policies have to do a little extra work. In most cases, your insurance agent will need the following:
An original estimate: This should include details about the damage to your car and the cost of repairs made during the restoration process.
Photos: Photo documentation of your car before and after it was repaired.
Statement: A certified mechanic’s statement from a certified technician confirming that your car is in working order.
VIN: The car’s vehicle identification number (VIN).
Title copy: A copy of your rebuilt title issued by the DMV.
As long as you can provide the necessary documentation, GEICO can provide you with a full-coverage policy that includes bodily injury liability, property damage liability,
Hint: Full coverage is the best car insurance you can get if you want the ultimate protection from car accidents and other incidents (like weather-related damage or
Higher rates: Rebuilt salvage vehicles usually have higher insurance rates than vehicles with clean titles, regardless of which insurance agency you choose.
Rebuilt-title cars are more likely to have mechanical problems or hidden damage, so their drivers are statistically more likely to get into an accident and file an insurance claim.
Also, with rebuilt salvage title cars, the car’s market
, a liability-only plan might be the best choice for you.
Of course, exact insurance costs vary from driver to driver. Driving record is a key element that goes into calculating car insurance rates.
Before you buy a policy, collect free auto insurance quotes and compare rates between GEICO and other auto insurance companies that offer rebuilt-title coverage, such as
just saved me $193/month on my car insurance. They literally found me the cheapest policies out there and with better coverage! Seriously, just sit back and watch Jerry work its magic.” —Rachel B.
If you want to drive the vehicle again and have it legally insured, you’ll need to get a rebuilt title. Car insurance companies will not insure a totaled car (aka salvage title vehicle), and you cannot legally drive one on public roads.
Is it a good idea to buy a rebuilt title car?
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While there’s nothing inherently wrong with buying a rebuilt title car, there is always the potential for more to be wrong with it than meets the eye.
It's not uncommon for major problems to resurface in rebuilt title cars and leave you stuck paying for repair after repair. When buying a rebuilt title car, it’s best to proceed with caution.