Understanding the Fine Line Between ACV and FMV for Your Junk Car

Posted on April 23, 2024 by junkcars17

When it comes to parting ways with your trusty automotive companion, understanding the fine line between Actual Cash Value (ACV) and Fair Market Value (FMV) can be the difference between a fair deal and feeling shortchanged. This critical distinction not only affects how insurance companies compensate you but also plays a pivotal role in selling, insuring, or even donating your vehicle. For car owners navigating the disassembly or disposal of a junk car, this blog post will illuminate the intricacies of ACV and FMV, offering essential insights into the worth of your wheels.

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Actual Cash Value (ACV)

Actual Cash Value is the substantiality of your vehicle in cash terms, calculated by insurance providers. The equation to determine ACV typically starts with the fair market value of your car—what you’d expect to pay for a comparable model in the open market. However, several factors come into play to modify this baseline figure, such as depreciation, wear and tear, and prior damage not fully repaired. Actual Cash Value is what an insurer would offer to replace your vehicle with one of the same make, model, and condition, taking into consideration its worth just before the incident that led to its being declared a total loss.

How Insurance Formulas Value ACV

Insurers commonly use standard formulas to estimate ACV, which includes:

Determining the pre-accident conditions of the vehicle.
Comparing with actual sale prices of similar vehicles.
Accounting for market conditions and relevant economic trends.
Adjusting for depreciation dependent on the age and use of the car.

Fair Market Value (FMV)

Fair Market Value is a broader benchmark indicating the worth of your vehicle on the open market in its present state. It is not a specific, legally defined term, but it’s typically interpreted as the price you could reasonably expect to get for your car as-is, given its current condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Unlike ACV, FMV takes into account the voluntary transactions between willing buyers and sellers.

The Relativity of FMV for Junk Cars

For a junk car, FMV may not seem very favorable. This is because, by definition, a junk car is often in a state where it’s not feasible to repair, and its components’ value exceeds the car’s composite whole. FMV guides the selling or scrapping process, indicating the maximum amount you might receive for your car from a buyer or a salvage yard.

Common Value Modifiers to Factor In

Both ACV and FMV are not static figures but dynamic, subject to a slew of variables. The most significant parameters that modulate these values include:

Age and Mileage: The wear and tear on your car are significant ACV depreciators. High mileage and advanced age can significantly reduce the value.

Pre-Loss Condition: Any prior damage that wasn’t fully repaired before the serious incident leading to a total loss can affect ACV calculations.

Current Condition: The state of your vehicle at the time of sale or insurance claim. The worse the condition, the lower the FMV or ACV.

Market Demand: Seasonal trends, economic highs or lows, and demand fluctuations can all influence what someone is willing to pay for your car or what an insurance company will offer.

Environmental and Personal Factors: Local environmental standards and personal preference can be subjective influences that are tough to quantify but can sway a potential buyer or insurance adjuster.

Navigating the ACV-FMV Balance for Scrap Car Owners

For owners looking to part with their junk cars, the understanding of ACV and FMV is more than a figure—it’s a strategic toolkit. Whether selling to a private party, scrapping with a salvage yard, or seeking compensation from an insurance claim, knowing these values can empower you to negotiate from a position of knowledge.

Selling with Wisdom

When selling a junk car, obtain multiple quotes from various buyers to gauge the market. Be ready to haggle if you believe the offered price doesn’t align with the FMV or to justify a higher quote if the car’s parts or metal can fetch a better price.

Navigating the Insurance Labyrinth

In the unfortunate event where your car meets its end, understanding ACV can help in negotiations with your insurer. Present a strong case supported by evidence of your car’s worth to push for a fair value if you feel the initial offer is insufficient.

Donation Decisions

Donating a car for a tax deduction? Knowing the FMV is crucial to ensure you’re receiving a realistic acknowledgment of your contribution. Ensure the charity offers guidelines to help you appraise your car within the tax law’s domain.

Pro Tips for Pumping Up Junk Car Value

While a junk car’s value may not rival the shimmer of new wheels, there are strategies to buff it up before the exchange. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Sprucing Up: Perform some rudimentary repairs or cleaning to present a better-looking vehicle, which could positively impact the ACV assessment. Ensure your insurer is aware of any improvements so they’re factored into the final value.

Maximizing Scrap-able Parts: Before selling or scrapping, assess your car for any valuable parts that can be sold separately. Authentic auto parts can command a higher value than the whole junk car, potentially pocketing you an incremental sum.

Negotiating: When entering negotiations, use the calculated ACV and FMV as benchmarks. Be assertive in your communication and if ACV and FMV aren’t matching up with the offered price, don’t be afraid to walk away or seek a second opinion.

Final Thoughts

The value of your junk car isn’t set in stone but in the understanding of its ACV and FMV. For a well-informed car owner, these values can be leveraged to salvage the most from their depreciated vehicle. Like searching for the silver lining, unraveling the arcane terminology and dynamic principles of ACV and FMV can lead you to a more equitable exchange, either for the teetering heap in your garage or the car you always counted on.

Navigating the waters of accurate valuation can be a complex task, and in some cases, professional assistance can be invaluable. For a car owner looking to maximize the compensation for their junk car, local auto salvage yards often provide not just a sale, but a resource. They’re seasoned in the art of delivering authentic, reliable estimates based on ACV and FMV principles. What’s more, they often take the vehicle off your hands, saving you the hassle of further negotiations or paperwork.

Is the cost to repair your car more than the actual market value of your vehicle? This means your ride is totaled. Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to speak with a licensed and qualified junk car buyer in Indianapolis who pays cash on the spot for totaled car and trucks in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide free phone quotes and junk car removal!

Can a Vehicle Be Repaired After Being Submerged in Water?

Posted on September 14, 2023 by junkcars17

Have you ever wondered what happens when a car gets submerged in water? Whether it’s due to a flood, a sinking boat, or just a wrong turn on an especially dark night, having your vehicle end up in a body of water can be a horrifying experience. More importantly, you might find yourself asking – is my car ruined forever? Or can it be salvaged and repaired?

This blog post will explore the fate of a water-damaged vehicle, discussing the factors that determine whether a car can be restored or if it’s deemed a total loss. Let’s dive into the world of submerged vehicles to uncover the truths and misconceptions.

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Can a Flooded Car Be Repaired?

The first step in answering this question lies in understanding the extent of the damage. If there is no significant structural damage, your vehicle may be salvageable – depending on how long it was submerged in water and what kinds of contaminants were present in the water. For example, saltwater can corrode certain metals or cause rusting, while freshwater may simply leave behind residue and bacteria. If the water has been flooding your car for several days, chemical contamination should also be taken into consideration.

In any case, an expert mechanic can help you assess the situation and tell you whether it’s possible to repair the vehicle or if it is best to start looking for some local auto salvage yards instead. Don’t forget to check with your insurance provider for coverage: in certain cases, they may be able to provide financial support if the car is deemed a total loss.

If Repair is an Option

If it’s possible to repair your vehicle, there are still steps you can take to ensure that it runs well and provides optimal performance. The first step is to thoroughly clean all of the components from water residue (especially any electrical parts) and allow them to dry completely. Depending on the extent of damage, you may need to take your car to a professional mechanic for repairs and replacements. Keep in mind that waterlogged vehicles will often require new brakes, tires, suspension components and even engine oil filters – all of which can significantly increase the cost of repair. They will also likely be given a salvaged car title.

Be Aware of the Risks

Finally, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with waterlogged vehicles. Even after the repair is complete, there may be issues in areas such as rust and corrosion that can cause long-term damage or lessen the resale value of the vehicle. It’s also possible that your car will never perform in the same way as it did before – a fact that you should keep in mind when making decisions about whether to repair or replace your vehicle.

In Summary

Overall, it is possible to salvage and repair a car that has been submerged in water – but the success of this process largely depends on the extent of damage caused by the incident. If you find yourself in this situation, make sure to consult an expert mechanic and check with your insurance provider for coverage before committing to any repairs. If you cannot repair your car, sell it to a junk car buyer in Indianapolis for an instant cash payout. By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your car is back on the road in no time.

Of course, it goes without saying: prevention is always better than cure – so drive safe and avoid any watery adventures! The last thing you want is to find yourself asking “can a vehicle be repaired after being submerged in water?”

Are you in search of reputable junk car buyers who can provide the fairest offer for your waterlogged vehicle? Here we are! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer!

Car Engine Repair Costs Explained: What to Expect When You Need a Fix

Posted on August 17, 2023 by junkcars17

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, understanding car engine repair costs is critical. For many, the mere thought of engine trouble triggers anxiety about looming repair bills. However, having a solid grasp on what goes into these costs can help ease these worries.

This blog post seeks to demystify car engine repair, replacement, and the various factors that contribute to these costs. From the intricacies of car engine parts to labor costs and everything in between, we’ll provide an informative guide to help you know what to expect when your vehicle needs a fix. Buckle up, as we dive into the world of motor repairs and costs.

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Common Factors That Determine Car Engine Repair Costs

When it comes to the cost of car engine repair, there are a variety of factors that come into play. The complexity and extent of repairs will determine how much time and labor is required, which can have a direct impact on costs. Additionally, the age and make/model of your vehicle comes into consideration. The cost of the car motor parts needed to repair or replace your engine will also influence costs. Oftentimes, labor charges are not just based on the amount of work needed, but also how much time is required to complete the repairs. Finally, your auto insurance policy may relieve some of the financial burden, so check your covera g e to see if engine repairs qualify.

Car Engine Replacement as an Alternative

Sometimes car engine repair isn’t always an option, and so engine replacement becomes necessary. This is often the case if you’ve encountered severe engine damage or if your current car model no longer has adequate parts available. In this situation, it’s important to consider both the short-term and long-term costs associated with a complete motor replacement. Not only will you need to purchase an entirely new set of car engine parts, but labor expenses may be higher than expected.

How To Find Reliable Auto Repair Shops

When selecting a repair shop, it’s important to research and find a reliable service provider with experienced technicians. Ensure that the shop utilizes quality car engine parts from reputable suppliers. Many shops offer warranties on both labor and parts, so inquire about what is covered under their warranty limitations and policies. It also pays to shop around and compare prices between auto shops to ensure you get the best deal.

When Engine Repair Costs More Than Your Car’s Actual Cash Value

If the cost to repair or replace your car engine is more than your vehicle’s actual cash value (AVC), the insurance company and/or the state DMV may declare it a total loss. Actual cash value takes into account factors such as the make and model of the car, its age, condition, and mileage. At the end of the day, the ACV of a junk car is usually just a fraction of what it would be worth in good condition. If you find yourself with a junk car and want to sell it, it’s important to get an accurate ACV assessment to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Just be sure to choose a reliable auto salvage yard in Indianapolis for a lucrative cash payment and convenient service.

In Conclusion

Having a car engine issue can be overwhelming, but understanding what goes into the repair costs can help ease these worries. From assessing labor rates and considering replacement options to selling a junk car for cash, it’s essential to have an accurate grasp on how much your repairs will cost.

Are you not interested in pursuing costly and time-consuming car engine repair? Then why not trade your total loss vehicle in for an instant cash payment? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer!

Demystifying the Claims Process: Dealing with Total Loss of Your Vehicle

Posted on August 1, 2023 by junkcars17

When you’ve been in an accident and your vehicle has suffered significant damage, one of the outcomes that sometimes surfaces is a ‘total loss’. This term, often dread-inducing for car owners, essentially means the cost to repair the vehicle surpasses its actual cash value (ACV). It’s a turning point that can leave you feeling anxious and overwhelmed, especially when you’re trying to navigate the labyrinth of insurance claims.

In this blog post, we will demystify the claims process surrounding a total loss vehicle, shedding light on what it really means, how the ACV is determined, and what happens when your vehicle is sent to the auto salvage yard. Arm yourself with knowledge and turn an otherwise stressful situation into a manageable task.

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Actual Cash Value (ACV) for Totaled Cars

At the end of the day, your insurance provider is not there to give you a handout; they are a business that wants to pay out as little money as possible. This means that if it can be proven that repairing your car would cost more than its actual cash value (ACV), then they are likely to declare it a total loss. To determine this figure, they must take into account the age of your totaled car, its make and model, any prevailing market conditions, and a few other factors.

Auto Scrap Yards

You may be wondering what happens to your car after it has been declared as a total loss vehicle. In most cases, it will be sent off to an auto salvage yard where it can be dismantled. This is part of the process that allows your insurance provider to calculate the actual cash value and settle with you accordingly. It’s useful to keep in mind that they will not pay out more than is necessary, it can be beneficial for you to shop around for a better deal.

Insurance Claim Payments

At this stage, you may also be wondering what compensation you’re entitled to receive from your insurer. Generally speaking, you will be paid out in the form of an actual cash value claim which is calculated based on your car’s year, make, model and overall condition. This figure should reflect what a functioning car of the same make and model would cost if it were new. The amount can also be adjusted depending on the current market conditions for cars similar to yours.

Maximizing Insurance Payouts

Finally, it’s worth noting that there are certain steps you can take in order to secure a better deal from your insurer. For instance, if you have proof of valuable car parts or extras that were fitted on your car before the accident, factor these into the equation as they may add additional value. Additionally, try to get an independent assessment done to find out how much it would cost to repair your car. This process can be time consuming, but it may help you get a better deal in the long run.

Bonus Tips for Total Loss Vehicles

In addition, there are a few other things you can do in order to get the most out of your total loss vehicle situation. It might be worth contacting an Indianapolis auto salvage yard to see if they will provide a better junk car selling experience. They may offer you a good amount of cash for your junk car, plus tow it away for free. You can also reach out to a scrapyard for used auto parts and repairs. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to buy a used car down the line and the salvage yard can provide you with quality parts and accessories at a discounted price.

It is also important to remain calm during the claims process as it can often become an emotional journey. Be sure to take time for yourself and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice from friends and family. Furthermore, pay attention to any deadlines or timelines provided by your insurer and be sure to comply with all of their requirements. This will help ensure that you receive the best possible outcome from your claim. Also, if your insurer offers rental car coverage, be sure to take advantage of that in order to ensure that you’re able to get around during your claims process.

In Summary

Overall, the claims process surrounding total loss of your vehicle can seem daunting and overwhelming – especially when you’re dealing with an insurance provider who is trying to pay out as little money as possible. That being said, by equipping yourself with knowledge and implementing some of the suggestions outlined above, you can transform this otherwise overwhelming situation into a task that is easier to handle.

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What You Need To Know About Auto Insurance Policies

Posted on July 5, 2023 by junkcars17

Auto insurance is one of the most important investments you can make. It protects you from financial losses if you get into an accident and can even help cover costs associated with a total loss of your vehicle. But before signing up for any auto insurance policy, it’s important to understand exactly what type of coverage it offers and how much protection it provides.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some key things that everyone should know about auto insurance policies so that they can make an informed decision when choosing the right plan for their needs.

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Auto Insurance 101

Understanding the basics of auto insurance is a great place to start. Generally, auto insurance policies provide coverage for any damage that occurs as a result of an accident. This includes damage to your vehicle, another person’s vehicle or property, and medical bills resulting from injuries sustained in the accident. Depending on the policy, some plans may also cover costs associated with a total loss vehicle, such as rental car expenses and roadside assistance.

How to Ensure Proper Car Insurance Coverage

It’s important to read through all of the details when signing up for an auto insurance policy so that you know exactly what kind of coverage it provides. Pay special attention to deductibles – this is the amount of money you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurer will begin covering the costs of an accident. Different policies will offer different deductible amounts, so make sure to look for one that fits your budget and still provides adequate protection.

Types of Automotive Insurance Policies

Be aware that different types of auto insurance may also offer varying levels of coverage depending on the type of policy you choose. Comprehensive policies tend to offer more coverage than basic liability plans, while third-party plans provide additional protection if another driver is at fault in a crash. Understanding all of these distinctions can help you determine the best plan for your needs and budget.

Car Maintenance and Repair Coverage

Finally, it’s important to remember that auto insurance does not cover any damage caused by normal wear and tear or maintenance issues – only accidents are covered by most policies. That means if something goes wrong with your engine or brakes, you’ll likely have to pay for those repairs out of pocket. Knowing this can help you plan ahead and budget for any unexpected mechanical issues that may arise in the future.

In Summary

We hope this post has provided some helpful insight into auto insurance policies so that you can make an informed decision when selecting coverage. Remember to read through all of the details carefully and choose a policy that fits both your needs and budget. With a little research, you’ll be on your way to finding the best auto insurance plan for your car!

Sell a Total Loss Vehicle for Cash on the Spot

If you’ve ever found yourself in the unfortunate situation of owning a total loss car, then you know how much of a burden it can be. It takes up space on your property, isn’t drivable, and can bring down the value of your home. However, selling your totaled car to a local junk car buyer in Indianapolis can turn this negative situation into a positive one. Not only will you receive a fair cash payment on the spot, but you’ll also have the added convenience of free junk car removal. Plus, selling to a local auto salvage yard is a quick and easy process, as they are experts in buying junked cars in any condition.

Don’t let your scrap vehicle weigh you down any longer, sell it to a local Cash for Cars company today! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to connect with a certified Indianapolis junk car buyer for details on how to get started! We offer free junk car removal and accept all old or broken auto parts!

The Pros and Cons of Making a Total Loss Car Insurance Claim

Posted on April 7, 2023 by junkcars17

No one wants to find themselves in the unfortunate position of dealing with a total loss vehicle. But if you do, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of making a total loss insurance claim before you move forward. It can be a difficult decision, but knowing the implications ahead of time will help you make an informed choice that’s best for your situation. But filing such a claim comes with both advantages and disadvantages; let’s explore them more closely below!

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What is a Total Loss Vehicle?

A total loss occurs when your car is damaged beyond repair or deemed too expensive to fix. Depending on the severity of the damage, this could mean anything from minor dents and scratches to major collisions resulting in destroyed parts and costly repairs. In these cases, you may have no other option than to file an insurance claim for a total loss vehicle so that you can receive compensation for its value before it was damaged.

Should You Make an Insurance Claim for Your Totaled Vehicle?

Pros:

You’ll receive financial compensation for the value of your car before it was damaged.

You can use that money to buy a replacement vehicle, or you may even end up with more money than what you originally paid for the car.

If your insurance pays out more than what you still owe on the loan for your car, any remaining funds can be applied towards a new vehicle or kept as savings.

Cons:

Depending on the severity of the damage, it may take some time to get an estimate from your insurer and receive approval for a total loss claim. This process could delay getting compensated and purchasing a replacement car.

Filing a total loss claim may increase the cost of your future insurance premiums, as it will be marked on your driving record.

Depending on where you live, you may be required to surrender the salvaged vehicle to an auto salvage yard. This could result in a lower payout if you are unable to keep any remaining parts or accessories from the car.

Conclusion on Filing Total Loss Auto Insurance Claims

In conclusion, filing a total loss insurance claim has both its advantages and disadvantages. It is important to weigh them carefully before making a decision that best suits your needs and situation. Be sure to consider all factors involved so that you can make an informed choice about how to manage your damaged vehicle.

Consider Junking Your Car for Cash

When you’ve decided against filing an insurance claim for your totaled car, the best way to get some compensation for it is by finding a reliable junk car buyer in Indianapolis. With their help, you get to make the most out of your total loss vehicle in the form of cash! Going through a junkyard may seem like challenging work but it can be beneficial as there are plenty of established services that offer attractive buying options on scrap vehicles. This could cash payments, or even having them tow it away for free.

Regardless of your choice, you don’t have to worry about extensive repairs or paperwork. Instead, all you need to do is find the right Cash for Cars Company in Indiana. They will provide a hassle-free process that makes scrapping your totaled car quick and convenient.

Would you enjoy free junk car removal and cash on the spot for your total loss vehicle? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a totaled car in Indianapolis, Indiana for cash on the spot! We provide free junk car removal, which means we come to you!

The Rising Costs of Owning a Vehicle

Posted on November 14, 2022 by junkcars17

If you’re a driver, then you know that the costs of auto repair can be pretty high. But what you may not realize is that the total cost of owning and operating a vehicle can be even higher. In fact, according to a new study from AAA, the average cost of owning and operating a vehicle in the United States is now $8,849 per year.

That’s right – the average cost of owning and operating a vehicle in the United States is now over $8,000 per year. And that number is only going to go up as the years go by. So, what’s driving up the cost of owning a car? Well, there are a few factors. Let’s scroll down to continue exploring this intriguing topic.

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Cost Breakdown For Car Ownership

Gas Prices are Insane

For one, the cost of gasoline has been on the rise in recent years. In fact, according to AAA, the average price of gasoline in the United States is now $2.64 per gallon. That’s up from $2.51 per gallon just a year ago. And as gas prices continue to rise, and so too will the cost of owning and operating a vehicle.

Car Insurance Isn’t Getting Cheaper

Another factor driving up the cost of car ownership is the cost of auto insurance. According to AAA, the average cost of auto insurance in the United States is now $1,555 per year. That’s up from $1,503 just a year ago. And as the costs of auto insurance continue to rise, so too will the cost of owning a car.

Auto Maintenance is Pricey

Finally, the cost of vehicle maintenance and repairs is also on the rise. According to AAA, the average cost of maintaining and repairing a vehicle in the United States is now $1,049 per year. That’s up from $1,021 just a year ago. And as the costs of vehicle maintenance and repairs continue to rise, so will the cost of owning a vehicle too.

Reconsider Buying a Car That is Brand New

So, what does all this mean for you? Well, if you’re thinking about buying a new car, you might want to think twice. The cost of owning and operating a vehicle is only going to go up in the years to come. And that means that your monthly car payment is only going to get higher and higher.

How to Save Money on Car Ownership Expenses

But don’t worry, there are still ways to save money on your vehicle ownership costs. For one, you can always buy a used car instead of a new one. Used cars are often much cheaper to own and operate than new cars. And they can still get you from point A to point B just as easily as a new car can.

You can also save money on your car ownership costs by shopping around for the best deals on auto insurance. There are a number of different auto insurance companies out there, and each one offers its own set of rates and discounts.

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How Long Do Vehicles Last?

Posted on November 3, 2022 by junkcars17

How long do cars last? It’s a question we hear a lot, and unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. Cars are complex machines with many different parts, and each part has its own lifespan. So, when it comes to figuring out how long a car will last, it really depends on a number of factors.

Continue below to learn which factors impact the total lifespan of a car or truck, from the date it is manufactured to the time it has driven its very last mile. Stick around to the end for a bonus tip on how to make the most out of a junk car that is no longer worth repairing!

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Factors That Impact the Lifespan of a Car or Truck

What influences the number of years a car or truck will last after it is built and sold to its first owner? Well, there are a number of variables to consider when estimating this automotive timeline. The first factor is the quality of the car. A high-quality car that’s well-made and uses high-quality parts is likely to last longer than a lower-quality car. The second factor is how the car is used. A car that’s driven gently and regularly serviced is likely to last longer than a car that’s driven hard and not serviced as often.

The third factor is the environment. A car that’s driven in a hot climate is likely to have a shorter lifespan than a car that’s driven in a cooler climate. And finally, the fourth factor is luck. Some cars just seem to last forever, while others have problems early on and don’t make it to their full potential.

So, when you’re wondering how long a car will last, keep these factors in mind. There’s no easy answer, but with a little bit of knowledge, you can get a better idea of what to expect from your vehicle. With that being said, at some point in time your vehicle will be totaled, meaning its current market value is below the cost to maintain it as an operational vehicle. In the automotive insurance industry, this is referred to as a total loss vehicle.

Total Loss Vehicles and Insurance Standards

A total loss vehicle is one that is so damaged, it’s not economical or safe to repair. When a car is totaled, the insurance company pays you the market value of your car minus the deductible on your policy. If you still owe money on the car, the lender will get paid first from the insurance payout. You may be able to buy back your totaled car from the insurance company, but it’s usually not worth it. Total loss claims are one of the most common claims made on auto insurance policies.

If your vehicle is not insured, you can choose to scrap it at a local Indianapolis auto salvage yard and get paid for its actual cash value. You can then put your earnings toward a new vehicle purchase. Not only junk car sales profitable for you as the junk car owner, but it is also a magnificent effort toward one of the most critical global efforts to preserve our natural resources, create jobs, boost the economy, and much more. Just be sure to choose a qualified and reputable Cash for Cars Company in Indianapolis to get the best payout, the most convenient amenities, and assurance that your junk car will be recycled responsibly.

Are you ready to learn how much your junk car will get you? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana for cash on the spot! We provide free junk car removal, so we come to you!

What You Need to Know About Your Fire Damaged Vehicle

Posted on September 26, 2022 by junkcars17

If your car catches fire, there are some things you need to know about insurance coverage and the claims process. Since there are different scenarios that can cause a car to catch fire, you can expect to come across different limits of coverage and procedure for each. Continue reading to learn some basic information about car insurance claims and coverage in the case that a vehicle is burned down in a fire.

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Not All Car Fires Render a Totaled Car

Car fires will clearly do a lot of damage to a vehicle. In most cases, cars are rendered a total loss after an engine or chassis fire. Fortunately, most insurance policies offer additional coverage for fires. This is called “comprehensive coverage”, and it will cover damages caused by a fire regardless of how the blaze occurred. However, this type of coverage must be purchased before a fire occurs. Some of the most common causes for automotive fires include car accidents, engine fires, garage fires, and arson.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are one of the most common causes for car fires. Serious vehicular collisions and accidents can damage fuel lines and fuel tanks, which leads to gasoline leakages. A tiny spark from metal colliding together is all it takes for combustion to happen. This is often the reason why fires break out after a car accident.

In terms of insurance coverage, the answer can be complex. Depending on how the blaze occurred and the parameters of your coverage, the damage could fall under comprehensive or collision. It is necessary to discuss this with your insurance adjuster to learn the details pertaining to your particular policy. If you do not have collision coverage insurance, there is still a possibility that it could be covered under comprehensive.

Garage Fires

In the case of garage fires, which are more common than you think, vehicles can experience a severe amount of damage. Most of the time, they are rendered totaled. Because garage fires are commonly caused by a household hazard or malfunction, people tend to assume that homeowners’ insurance will cover the damages to their vehicles; but the truth is that homeowners’ insurance never covers vehicles. Instead, cars damaged in garage fires are only covered under comprehensive coverage.

Engine Fires

Engine fires generally result in a total loss vehicle. That is because the cost to purchase and install a new engine is often close to the actual cash value of the vehicle. In this case, comprehensive coverage will cover engine fires. However, it is important to know that car insurance policies do not typically cover mechanical defects in car engines. Fires are the exception to this rule. Whether a vehicle is a total loss or not, a car insurance policy will likely pay the actual cash value of the vehicle minus the owner’s insurance deductible.

Arson

There’s not much to say about the criminal act of arson, except that it does happen to vehicles and the damages can be covered by car insurance policies. Comprehensive coverage covers vandalism, so if a vehicle is intentionally set on fire, the damages are covered so long as a police report is made.

Sell a Burned Car in Indianapolis for Cash on the Spot

If your car is damaged in a fire, you likely have a total loss vehicle on your hands. Sell your totaled car for cash on the spot to a local junk car buyer. They will pay you cash for the actual cash value of your vehicle. This is sometimes more than what you can get from your insurance company!

Not sure which Cash for Cars Company in Indy to trust for the highest junk car payout? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to speak with a licensed and qualified junk car buyer about scrapping a burned vehicle in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide free phone quotes and junk car removal!

Can I Choose to Keep My Car After Totaling It?

Posted on July 25, 2022 by junkcars17

For most, car accidents are emotionally-draining experiences. But with proper insurance coverage, they do not have to be financially-draining. Learn your options for keeping a totaled car, and how to do so without committing fraud with your insurance company.

Local Junk Car Buyers Indianapolis Indiana 317-608-2188

When is a Vehicle Totaled?

A vehicle is considered “totaled” when the cost to repair it back to its previous condition is more than the current value of the vehicle. Insurance companies and car manufacturers have stringent procedures and requisites in place to determine these values. With a totaled vehicle on your hands, you may feel like you are at a total loss; however, if you have insurance, you should be just fine depending on the level of coverage your policy provides.

With full coverage insurance, you can expect to receive money from your insurance provider to repair the damages, or to settle the note with the lien holder and cover the cost of a new vehicle of equal current value. If you have liability coverage, you will mostly likely receive less from your insurance provider and have to pay more out of pocket.

Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers

If you do not have insurance, your best option is to junk the vehicle for cash and apply your profit toward a new car purchase. You can do this by contacting a trusted junk car buyer and requesting a free phone estimate. If you accept their offer, they will usually come pick up your vehicle at no extra charge! Only reputable and highly professional junk car buying companies offer this kind of service.

Insurance Claims and Totaled Cars

If your insurance company marks your car totaled, they will take your vehicle and give you a check for the current value. However, if you want to keep your totaled vehicle, you must inform your insurance company. In this case, you can expect to receive less money for the vehicle. If you were to accept money from the insurance company, and then keep your vehicle, you could be found guilty of insurance fraud depending on the specifics of your situation.

Some policies allow people to keep their totaled vehicle, while others include language that does not permit this at all. It is important to talk to your insurance provider and learn the details of what your policy covers and what it does not. Do this before an accident occurs so that you make better decisions regarding what you can do with a totaled car.

Did you total your car, but it is not covered by enough or any auto insurance? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your junk car for cash on the spot to one of our Indianapolis junk car buyers! We even offer free junk removal!