In Texas, a salvage title means the car was in an accident and declared unsafe to drive. To drive a salvage title car in Texas, you must repair it and get a "rebuilt" title. This involves getting the car inspected to confirm it is now roadworthy.
With a rebuilt title, you can register, insure and drive the car. Without it, driving a salvage title car is illegal. Texas sets salvage thresholds based on damage equaling 75-100% of a car’s value.
To get a salvage title in Texas, apply to the DMV. You’ll need to provide ownership proof and pay an $8 fee. For a rebuilt title, you must also get a safety inspection after repairs, fill out state forms, show ID and pay rebuild fees.
Insurance coverage depends on the repair quality. Companies can still deny coverage for rebuilt salvage cars. When buying used vehicles in Texas, salvage branding alerts buyers of any major prior damage. Sellers must disclose salvage titles, if applicable.
Overall, you cannot drive uninsured salvage cars in Texas until rebuilt, inspected and registered for road use. The rebuild process involves state inspections, proper paperwork and new titles. Even then, coverage may be difficult to find. Texas branding aims to protect buyers from unsafe, damaged cars.
"Buyer Beware" is wisdom with a salvage title. Have a mechanic inspect carefully. Do your research on why a salvage title was issued. At Auto Credit Express, we believe everyone should have a reliable vehicle.