Salvage History Check

Vehicles that have experienced significant damage, usually from accidents, natural disasters, or thefts are typically declared as “total losses” by insurance companies, meaning that the cost to repair the vehicle would be greater than the vehicle’s market value post-repair. Such vehicles might either be re-introduced to the roads after necessary repairs or stripped down for parts if they’re deemed unroadworthy.

A “salvage car history check”, therefore, becomes crucial for anyone considering purchasing a used vehicle. This check offers a deep dive into the vehicle’s past, revealing if it has ever been written off and auctioned as salvage. By understanding the complete “salvage history” of a car, potential buyers can make informed decisions.

Once an insurance company declares a vehicle a total loss, it usually takes possession of the vehicle and pays the owner the pre-accident value. The insurance company then sells these damaged vehicles at salvage auctions to recover some of their costs.

Buyers at salvage auctions can range from auto mechanics looking to refurbish the vehicles for resale, parts dealers (breakers) aiming to dismantle the vehicles to sell individual parts, to individuals searching for project cars or potential bargains.

After purchase from a salvage auction, if the vehicle is to be put back on the road, it must be repaired to meet safety standards and pass any necessary inspections. It’s also important to note that a car bought from a salvage auction will have a salvage title, which indicates its history of significant damage. This title can impact the vehicle’s resale value and insurability.

Our comprehensive salvage check provides insights that go beyond the basic vehicle check information. Here’s what you can expect:

• Date of Insurance Write-off: Know exactly when the vehicle was written off and sent to a salvage auction.
• Write-off Category: Understand the severity of damage using the UK’s categorisation system.
• Vehicle Identity Check: Cross-reference the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and engine number to ensure you’re inspecting the right car.
• Salvage Auction Images: Where available, we endeavour to provide images from the salvage auction or vehicle breakers, so you can visually assess the extent of damage, giving you a clearer picture than descriptions might offer.

While the industry-standard MIAFTR database is comprehensive, some vehicles might slip through the cracks. Our salvage vehicle check ensures you’re not kept in the dark:

1. In-depth Analysis: You get more than just basic vehicle check information. Details of the write-off, write-off category and images from the salvage auction (where available) can offer a genuine understanding of the extent of damage and repairs.
2. Peace of Mind: Ensuring that the vehicle hasn’t previously been written-off provides confidence in your purchase.
3. Value for Money: By understanding the salvage history, you can negotiate a fair price and avoid overpaying for a vehicle that’s had significant damage and repairs.

In the dynamic world of used cars, information is your best ally. Let Ultimate Car Check be your trusted guide in uncovering a vehicle’s past, ensuring your future journeys are safe.