Should a Car be Totaled or Repaired?
The first and most important detail drivers should consider when their car suffers considerable damage is the value of the ride.
Sometimes, even the best drivers can't avoid a crash. If a car is in rough condition, a question arises: should the vehicle be totaled or repaired? Here are some factors that influence this decision:
The value of the vehicle
The first and most important detail drivers should consider when their car suffers considerable damage is the value of the ride. For example, if the four-wheeler is worth $5,000 and the repair costs $6000 to $7000, then fixing it is a waste of money. In this case, totaling the vehicle or selling it to a reliable junkyard is the best option.
Repair time
Car damage isn't always a total loss. Some problems are severe but not too expensive to fix, saving many motorists. In other words, they typically decide to fix the vehicle if the repair cost is lower than the value of the ride.
However, the price isn't the only factor when deciding to junk or repair a vehicle. Think about it—is a repair worth it if it takes months?
It's a deal breaker for many because they have to rely on other means of transport far longer than they want. When the vehicle exits the body shop, the driver may have moved on from the four-wheeler and started looking for a replacement.
Therefore, the longer a mechanic takes to repair a car, the more it makes sense to contact a junkyard company. At least it gives the owner some cash that counts toward their next vehicle.
Sentimental value
Monetary value is essential but not the only factor when deciding to repair or total a vehicle. Sentimental value is also a significant factor.
For instance, the car may have been passed from generation to generation. The current owner may know its sentimental importance to the family, so they might not want to let it go despite considerable damage. In that case, fixing the vehicle might be a good decision.
So, what's the verdict?
Both schools of thought have valid points when arguing whether to repair or total a damaged car. On the one hand, fixing a vehicle makes sense if the price of repairs is lower than the monetary value of the ride. It can also be a smart move if the owner has a strong emotional connection with the car.
On the other hand, drivers shouldn't have their vehicles repaired if the fix is too expensive. Totaling the model or selling it to a junkyard is also a better decision if it takes months to repair the car.
If you take the junkyard route, select a reliable buyer. An experienced salvage team requires minimal paperwork and lets you move on from the totaled car in no time.
If you are in the Phoenix Metro area and want a no-hassle cash offer on an old, wrecked, unwanted, salvage or burned car, SUV, van or truck, give us a call at I Buy Junk Cars. 480-771-8290.