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How do I buy a totaled car from an insurance company?

I'm considering buying a totaled car from an insurance company because they are pretty cheap. I have the money to turn a project around, but how do I go about buying these totaled cars?

avatar
Carlos Kirby · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Generally, insurance companies will not sell totaled cars directly to customers. Instead, they partner with auction companies that set bids for totaled and impounded cars.
To find one of these auctions:
  • Contact a local insurance agent
  • Call a local tow yard
  • Check your local paper
  • Look online
Before you buy, be sure to research your state’s salvage and total loss licensing requirements. Keep in mind that you cannot drive a car with a salvage title. In order to legally drive the vehicle, you’ll have to first get a rebuilt title by:
  • Making all necessary repairs to the car
  • Taking the rebuilt car in for a thorough safety inspection
When it comes to insurance, not all insurance companies are willing to provide coverage on rebuilt cars, so you will probably need to compare quotes from a variety of providers. You can easily do this when you sign up with
Jerry
, the free insurance comparison app. When you find the best rate, Jerry can also sign you up for your new policy and help you cancel your old one.
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