Buying a damaged car can be a smart and savvy way to own a vehicle in tough economic times, but it is often a daunting consideration. Whether you’re a restoration enthusiast, looking for affordable spares, or on a tight budget and searching for a salvage car for sale, damaged vehicles provide a beacon of hope and opportunity. But what happens after you’ve signed on the dotted line and exited the dealership?
With over 22 years of experience in the salvage motor industry, Hallmark Auto is perfectly positioned to assist you in your new damaged vehicle ownership journey.
Before we get started understanding the options available with a salvage car in your possession, let’s unpack what counts as a salvage vehicle and who would benefit from owning one.
What is a salvage car?
A salvage vehicle is one that has been damaged to the extent that the insurance company has written it off. This could be as a result of accident damage, exterior damage from a hailstorm, water or fire damage as well as stolen and recovered cars that do not display extensive damage.
The level of damage is expressed in different codes. There are two codes of salvage vehicles for sale at Hallmark Auto.
These include:
Code 2 - A car registered in the name of a natural or juristic person that is second-hand. This vehicle has not been re-registered and can be sold to a third party as a used car.
Code 3 - These vehicles have been de-registered. They may be sold to a third party but will be labelled as rebuilt if re-registered.
Why would you choose to buy a damaged car?
There are several unique scenarios where purchasing a salvage vehicle is a wise choice.
Here are 3 of the most common:
Budget-friendly
Salvage vehicles present a brilliant opportunity for cost savings. Sold at a fraction of the price of a new or well-maintained car, damaged vehicles sometimes only require a minor ‘nip and tuck’ before they’re ready to return to the road. Those looking to own a vehicle who cannot afford the price tag attached to second-hand or new vehicles find a convenient alternative in the salvage vehicle market.
Project car enthusiasts
Looking to take up a new hobby? Purchasing a salvage vehicle for sale can present a new opportunity to restore, revamp and customise a car according to your personal preferences, leaving an indelible mark on a vehicle. Plus it’s an eco-friendly alternative. (Read more about it in our blog here).
Rare or classic car restoration
Salvage vehicles, particularly newer models, can provide a savvy source of rare or classic car parts. If you’re looking to restore a vehicle, buying a damaged car can assist in the sourcing of hard-to-find components at a reduced cost.
Options after purchasing a salvage vehicle
Salvage cars for sale offer a number of future opportunities.
These include:
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Assess the extent of the damage, source the required parts and either become a DIY enthusiast or give the job over to a trusted mechanic or autobody repair shop for fixing. Once repaired, the car will need to pass a roadworthiness inspection test before it can be driven again.
Use for spare parts
If the damage is too extensive for repairs, stripping the car of any useful parts could be a viable alternative. If you already own a vehicle of the same model, you could use the parts for inexpensive repairs or sell the parts.
Resell your restored vehicle
It is possible to fetch a profit from reselling a restored salvage vehicle, especially if it's a popular or rare model. Maintain transparency concerning the vehicle’s history in to ensure a smooth transaction.
Hallmark Auto: Trust the salvage car experts
Hallmark Auto’s team of specialists offers a wide range of damaged car options to suit various needs and budgets. Our industry experts are dedicated to providing you with the best advice and support throughout your salvage car journey.
Here are a few reasons why you can trust us:
We are a premium salvage service provider, showcasing salvage vehicles that have been purchased outright from insurance companies. We also adhere to the Second Hand Goods Act.
Our warehouses can house over 1000 vehicles at any given time.
You can either buy directly or register for one of our timed auctions.
We offer a live chat option when you opt to buy online, providing much-needed knowledgeable advice and assistance.
You can arrange a convenient video call with a 360 virtual presentation of the salvage car of your choice.
You may visit us in Bramley and Pretoria West to view the damaged vehicle in person with your personal mechanic, who can give a realistic estimate on repair costs before you bid or buy.
