What to do with a damaged car?

Many cars get into accidents every year. The average driver can be involved in about four accidents in his life! The United States has more than four times as many car accidents as any other country. Let's talk about what to do with a damaged car.

What to do with a damaged car?

Do you want to return at least part of the money spent on your purchase? Then we recommend that you sell your damaged car. Some companies, such as JunkCarsUs, are interested in junk cars and can pay you excellent compensation. First, calculate the cost; the totaled car value calculator will help you.

The causes of car accidents

Several reasons cause road accidents:

  • Driving while intoxicated
  • Lack of quality vehicle maintenance
  • Lack of attention
  • Bad weather

Of course, these are not all the reasons. Also, a person may become ill while driving, for example. In any case, try to compensate for at least part of the losses.

What kind of damage occurs to a car?

The nature of the damage may vary.

The degree of damage to a car can be divided into three types:

  1. Minor damage (scratches, dents, and holes in the body) usually affects the appearance but does not affect the car's general condition. 
  2. Moderate damage - e.g., as a result of a head-on collision. The car needs to replace a large number of parts.
  3. Significant damage - the car, on average, cannot be restored. A car crashes into a ditch, and substantial impacts cause considerable damage.

The car may also have hidden damage. For example, a washer reservoir, electronic units, and other essential elements may be hidden under the bumper or fender. Minor damage to the plastic may make it necessary to replace not only the bumper trim but also, for example, the tank. A small dent in a car door can cause damage to the window regulator.

How to make money on junk cars

You can restore a damaged car. However, estimate how much it will cost to repair a vehicle. Sometimes, it will likely be more profitable for you to buy a new car than to spend money on improving it. And you have an excellent opportunity to make money on a used auto! And let it compensate at least partially for the losses from the accident. When choosing a way to make money on a used car, consider all the nuances and risks. 

  • Selling at Auction: You can find a seller privately or attend an auction.
  • Sale of spare parts. The global auto parts market size was USD 2421030 million in 2022. Many companies can buy used cars as donors of spare parts or engines.
  • Sale for disposal. Sell your junk car to recycling companies. It is not so profitable for you, but it is reliable.
  • Car sales to the company: Some companies will be happy to purchase from you a car that has been involved in an accident. And this is an excellent opportunity for you to make money.

Who buys junk cars?

  • Various companies and platforms are very interested in this:
  • Car dealerships: Some dealers specialize in repairing damaged cars. You can contact them and analyze different price offers.
  • Auto Dismantling and Recycling: Auto dismantlers can sometimes take your junk car and disassemble it into parts or recycle it, in which case you can receive money for auto parts or the entire car.
  • Local Dealers: Local dealers may also be interested in purchasing your car.
  • Auctions: Salvage cars can be sold at car auctions. Be sure to research the auctions and choose the one right for you.
  • Online Platforms: There are online platforms and websites that can connect you with potential buyers or companies specializing in buying junk cars.
  • Selling a used car to a company: JunkCarsUs will buy a car from you in whatever condition it is: a car that survived a flood, a car that survived a fire, a car that was wrecked in an accident, and so on. You can instantly fill out a unique online form, use the totaled junk car value calculator, negotiate with the company, and receive cash. You don't even have to spend time and money towing your car.

It should be remembered that the price for a damaged car will largely depend on its make, model, nature of damage, and so on. Read the regulations and requirements in advance before selling a used car. A unique totaled car value calculator will help you calculate the exact price.

How to calculate the cost of a junk car

A totaled damaged car value calculator is a tool used to estimate the value of a totaled, damaged car that was beyond repair and has been deemed a total loss by the appraiser. In this case, the cost of repairing a damaged car exceeds its current market value or its insurance value. The price is determined not only by the company that is ready to buy a used car. The cost of the car is also calculated by insurance companies when settling a claim. Be that as it may, here are some common factors that are used when calculating the price of a salvage car:

  • Actual Cash Value (ACV): The car's market value before it was involved in an accident. Often, a vehicle's value depends on many factors: the make, model, condition of the car, and the price in the local market.
  • Vehicle history: for example, have there been any accidents before? When assessing the value of a used car, various factors are considered.
  • Additional factors: sometimes, other options and features can increase the cost of a car.
  • Condition of the car before the accident: of course, the cost of the car will be higher if it was in excellent condition before the accident.
  • Prices on the local market. In some countries, the cost of a car may be lower; in others, it is higher.
  • A company wanting to purchase a used car from you will check its age and mileage.
  • Only by analyzing the car's condition and other factors can you correctly calculate its value.

Conclusions

Even if your car was involved in an accident, you can compensate at least partially by selling the vehicle to a particular company. Specialists are ready to pick up your car anytime, paying you cash. When you contact JunkCarsUs, you can be sure you will get your car's maximum price. A car is accepted in any condition, regardless of the severity and nature of its damage, the make and model of the car. Get money for a used car - it's very profitable.

Image credit: Depositphotos