Can a Vehicle Be Repaired After Being Submerged in Water?

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.

Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Water Damaged Car in Indianapolis
Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Water Damaged Car in Indianapolis

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!

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How to Assess Your Junk Car’s Worth
How to Diagnose Water Damage in Your Car
Is My Car Totaled If It Is Over 50 Percent Damaged?

How to Cut Down on Costly Car Repair Bills

Do you dread taking your car to the repair shop because of expensive, unexpected bills? Many drivers experience this dilemma and are looking for ways to reduce their auto repair costs. Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take that will help cut down on costly car repair bills. By following these simple tips and keeping up with regular maintenance checks, you’ll be able to save money on costly car repairs in the long run!

Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Totaled Car in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Totaled Car in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Good Auto Maintenance Can Lower the Risk of Expensive Car Repair Bills

Taking good care of your vehicle is essential in order to keep it running smoothly and avoid expensive repairs. Regularly scheduled maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and engine tune-ups can all help prevent bigger problems from occurring later on. In addition, being aware of warning signs like strange noises or smells can alert you to potential issues so they don’t become more serious down the road.

Research Budget-Friendly Auto Mechanics

 When it comes time for necessary car repairs, be sure to do your research. Shop around and compare prices from different auto repair shops in order to get the best deal. In addition, you can find a lot of useful information online about car troubleshooting and potential solutions. If a repair seems too difficult or intimidating, consider talking with a friend or family member who may have more experience in this area. This way you can save money on labor costs and avoid expensive mistakes that often come with DIY repairs.

Safe Driving Helps to Avoid Expensive Car Repairs

Finally, don’t forget about preventative measures such as driving safely at all times and avoiding risky driving conditions whenever possible. Doing so will help reduce costly car repair bills by preventing accidents or other damage caused by poor driving habits.

By following these tips and staying up to date on regular car maintenance, you can save money on costly car repair bills in the long run. Taking good care of your vehicle will help ensure it runs smoothly for years to come!

When Car Repair Costs More Than Your Car

If the cost of repairing your vehicle exceeds the actual cash value, it can be deemed as a total loss. An inspection by a certified accredited mechanic must take place to properly evaluate how much the cost of repairs would be versus how much the total loss figures are. It may be feasible that extensive repairs need to take place but, in some sense, it leads to a conclusion that the vehicle is altogether beyond comprehension and any form of repair is impossible or impractical due to financial constraints. Therefore, economic points concerning actual cash value calculations and car repair bills positioned side by side should eventually conclude if it falls from its belief into precedence as a total loss.

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!

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Is My Car Totaled If It Is Over 50 Percent Damaged?
Do Scrap Metal Prices Matter When Selling a Junk Car?
The Rising Costs of Owning a Vehicle

Is My Car Totaled If It Is Over 50 Percent Damaged?

No matter how much you wreck or damage a car, it is never entirely void of value. However, if the cost to repair the damage exceeds a certain percentage of its current market resale value, you could be looking at a total loss. Continue reading to learn what this average percentage is, plus a bonus tip on how to earn the maximum profit by selling a totaled car in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Indiana Cash for Totaled Cars 317-608-2188
Indiana Cash for Totaled Cars 317-608-2188

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

In order to determine if a car is totaled or not due to the amount of damage it has, you need to calculate the Actual Cash Value, or ACV. This number will give you a basis to predict what the insurance company will do with your car or truck.  Actual Cash Value will be calculated by the insurance company using specific factors relevant to your vehicle, including the make and model, after-market modifications or features, pre-incident damages, and similar, regional auto sales of the particular vehicle.

3 Qualities of a Total Loss Vehicle

There are three key indicators of a totaled car. A vehicle will be deemed a total loss if it meets even one of the three:

➀ It cannot be safely repaired.
➁ The cost to repair exceeds the ACV.
➂ It meets Indiana’s total loss guidelines.

Your car does not have to be 50% damaged to meet the total loss guidelines listed above. It can be less than 50% damaged or more than 50% damaged and be deemed totaled. For this reason, it is important to have your vehicle properly evaluated and diagnosed by a licensed mechanic.

How to Keep a Totaled Car

In Indiana, you are permitted to keep your totaled car whether it is insured or not. However, if you want to still collect from your insurance, keep in mind that they will pay you the pre-crash value, but subtract your policy deductible and the amount of money that the insurance company would have gained by selling your totaled vehicle to a salvage yard. Is this the wise way to go? It depends on your intentions.

If you want to keep a totaled car for the purpose of reselling it, you should avoid claiming it under your insurance. Instead, sell directly to an Indianapolis junk car buyer for the maximum payout. This cuts out the middleman, so you make more money!

Are you looking for a well-established and ultra-professional auto salvage yard that can pay out top dollar for junk cars and motorized equipment in Indy? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get paid cash on the spot by a trusted junk car buyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide FREE junk car removal!

Related Posts:

Is My Car Totaled if the Engine Blew?
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Is My Car Totaled if it Can’t Pass an Emissions Test?

Can I Get 500 Dollars for My Junk Car?

If you have a junk car to sell, you are in a great position. You can certainly make some fast cash and get rid of it in an environmentally-responsible way, all at the same time. However, do not allow yourself to be misled by people who have, in previous years, earned up to $500 for their junk vehicle. You see, there are many variables that influence how much a junk car is worth, one major variable being the price of scrap metal. And in recent years, the price of scrap metal has gone way down.

For this reason, it is not likely that you will get any junk car buyer to pay you $500 for your junk car, unless it actually still runs. But don’t get down! You are still set to make a hefty profit from selling your junk or totaled vehicle, so long as you choose the right company to do business with.

Continue reading for a better understanding of junk car values and the scrap metal market, as well as where to get paid the most for your junk car in Indiana.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Last’s Years Top 10 Nationwide Junk Cars

To see how much your junk car might be worth, take a look at last years top 10 junked cars and compare their 2020 average worth to your make and model vehicle.

2005 Nissan Altima
$199.33

2001 Honda Accord
$172.17

1998 Honda Accord
$129.20

1999 Honda Accord
$149.97

2006 Chevy Impala
$188.87

2002 Honda Accord
$191.03

2000 Honda Accord
$171.03

2006 Nissan Altima
$191.00

2005 Honda Civic
$371.64

2001 Honda Civic
$199.45

What You Can Expect

Basically, if your junk car or totaled car is near the make and model of these cars, you can expect to get paid anywhere between $130.00 and $200.00, give or take. Again, this also depends on several other factors that can lower or raise your junk car’s worth. Such factors include the vehicle’s condition, location, difficulty to transport, and more.

How to Choose the Right Junk Car Buyer

The right junk car buying company has a good reputation, is sufficiently-equipped to provide accurate weigh-ins and assessments, and successful enough to pay the highest return possible for your asset. Furthermore, they offer a list of customer conveniences that make the process of selling a junk car, simple to follow. Skip the hassle of calling around and simply do what most other Hoosiers do: Choose GC’s Junk Cars in Indianapolis to sell a junk car in Central Indiana!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to learn just how easy the car selling process can be. Our Indianapolis, Indiana junk car buyers offer FREE estimates and FREE towing with our in-house tow truck! So, all you have to do is call and accept our offer. We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you CASH ON THE SPOT! We accept all vehicles and motorized commodities, regardless of age or condition. Request a free estimate, today!

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

Will Auto Insurance Cover Engine Fires?

Car engines can catch fire for many reasons. From arson to accidents, the list of possible causes might be broad, but will always bring you back to the question of insurance coverage. Is an engine fire accident covered or not? Continue reading to learn what you need to know about car insurance engine fire claims, and your options for recovering a payment for your junk vehicle.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Unless you have comprehensive insurance coverage for your vehicle, it WILL NOT be covered under policy in the case of an engine fire. You see, collision coverage will cover car wrecks, while comprehensive insurance policies cover all types of damage that can happen to a vehicle aside from a collision, such as vandalism, fallen tree, flooding, theft, and of course, engine fires.

In some states, comprehensive insurance coverage is mandatory for all vehicle owners, but most states keep it optional. However, if you are financing your vehicle, it is likely that your lender will require comprehensive coverage, even in you live in a state that does not legally enforce such insurance. This is especially true if the vehicle is being used as collateral for a loan.

Engines Fires

Engine fires can happen for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, engine fires are intentionally started for the purpose of vandalism, which is referred to as arson. Other times, car engines catch fire as a result of serious collisions, improper fuel storage, and faulty or defective automotive mechanics. Most auto insurance does not coverage mechanical malfunctions, but engine fires are typically an exception under such policies.

If an engine catches fire in your garage, even if the cause was accidental or a result of a system failure in the house, it will not be covered under homeowners’ insurance, but would be covered under comprehensive. Similarly, if your car is vandalized and set on fire, it will not be covered under your homeowners’ nor your automotive insurance (unless you have comprehensive).

Total Loss Vehicles

Virtually all engine fires cause a vehicle to be a total loss, which means the cost to repair it back to its original, pre-accident condition is higher than the current market value. When this happens, and you do not have comprehensive insurance coverage, you might be feeling like you are out of luck. Although you cannot receive an Actual Cash Value insurance settlement to buy a new car, you can sell it to a local junk car buyer. A Cash for Cars Company will pay you on the spot for your vehicle, regardless of its condition. This profit can be handy, as it can be applied toward a new car or car payment.

How Sell a Junk Car in Indiana

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana. We make the car selling process as easy as possible by offering FREE towing with our in-house tow truck! So all you have to do is call and accept our offer. We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you CASH ON THE SPOT! We accept all vehicles and motorized commodities, regardless of age or condition. Request a free estimate, today!

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

How to Safely Get Rid of a Used Car Battery

Changing and replacing a car battery is common knowledge for most car owners, however, knowing what to do with a used car battery is not. There are several constituents inside a car battery that allows it to cooperate and function within vehicles. These same components are mostly chemical-based, and can be tremendously hazardous in various aspects.

Continue reading to learn why safe battery disposal is so important to our health, safety, and surrounding environment, as well as, how to properly get rid of a used one when the time comes for you to do so.

Junk Car Buyers Indianapolis
Sell Us Your Junk Car Parts! 317-608-2188

Car Battery Anatomy

Car batteries contain several dangerous chemicals, materials, and heavy metals.  For instance, a standard 12 volt car battery contains elements such as lead, plastic, sulfuric acid, and more.  Diesel engine vehicles, like semi-trucks and tractors, may use a 24 volt system; requiring the use of two 12 volt batteries to operate. This means double the toxins, chemicals, and heavy metals. These 12 volt car batteries are made with lead plates and lead dioxide plates. These plates are submerged in an electrolyte solution made up of sulfuric acid and water. The chemical reaction of the two elements creates electrons that let them pass through conductors, running electricity to the vehicle’s engine and inner components.  

When a battery begins to lose its power, it is because the acid within the electrolyte solution has reacted with the plates, changing them from lead and lead dioxide, to lead sulfate. When a car battery is recharged, this same process is simply reversed. All these chemicals that make a vehicle’s battery function have proven useful in the automotive world, but they still need to be handled responsibility to protect ourselves and the environment from harm. One of the best ways to do this is by recycling used car batteries. It is the best and most responsible method to car battery disposal.

Car Battery Recycling

One unique aspect of automotive batteries is that they are almost completely recyclable. This means that nearly all of a battery’s components can be recycled and reused for new car batteries. For example, the lead is virtually 100% recyclable, and can be melted down, filtered, and refurbished in new car parts. The plastic components are also completely recyclable and can be reused in other products. Surprisingly, the sulfuric acid can even be reused. It can be counteracted and purified to be released as uncontaminated water, converted into sodium sulfate (for fertilizers, dyes, etc.), or reused in new car batteries.

To recycle a used car battery, simply take it to a local automotive salvage company near you.  Most auto salvage professionals will accept used batteries and other vehicle parts, regardless of age or condition.  This includes car batteries. Recycling an automotive battery is a great contribution to protecting our environment and preserving our natural resources. 

How to Sell Junk Cars and Automotive Parts

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your old car parts or junk car for cash on the spot! We will buy any junk cars and car parts in Central Indiana, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. For those who wish to sell a junk car, we offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, anytime!

How Does the Junk Car Buying Process Work?

After years of collecting weeds and stray animals, your junk car is ready to be sold to a salvage yard. Although you might think that its value is not worth the trouble of going through the junk car selling process, you’d actually be surprised to learn how much a buyer would pay for it’s metal content. You see, cars contain a large amount of metal, which is 100% recyclable. This reusable metal is highly value to our economy, and therefore, fervently sought out by a variety of buyers, including junk car companies.

Sure, the worth of a junk car will vary on a large spectrum depending on a wide range of factors, but the reality is that you can still get rid of a piece of junk and put some cash in your pocket, all in the same day. All you have to do is get the junk car selling and buying process started on the right foot.

Continue reading to learn how the junk car sales process works, what you need to know, and who to trust for the highest payouts in Central Indiana.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Junk Car Research

Your first step to selling a junk car is happening right now; research. It is important to educate yourself on the basic economics and practices in the junk car buying industry. This knowledge will set you up with a basis that will allow you to ask the right questions and choose the right buyer. Typically, the first item of information a junk car seller wants to know is how much their car is worth. As mentioned, junk car values will vary depending on a wide scope of factors, including make, model, age, condition, and current market demand.

The only way to know how much your junk asset is worth is to have it evaluated in-person by a qualified junk car professional. Such professionals will retain state of the art technologies, like electronic weight scales and metal analyzers, and apply these technologies to their years of experience, allowing them to develop an accurate estimation of value for a junk vehicle.

Contact a Junk Car Pro

Once you have given yourself a basic crash course in junk car economics, you are ready to start contacting junk car companies to see who will pay the most and offer the best customer conveniences. For instance, it is wise to choose a junk car buyer who can provide pickup and haul away service at no extra charge. They will simply come to you. Some junk car companies deduct towing fees from their total offer for this type of service. See our blog, “How to Choose the Best Junk Car Buyers” to learn effective strategies for finding a dependable Indianapolis junk car buyer near you.

Accept an Offer

Once you have a junk car buyer on the phone, request a free estimate for your junk car. They will simply ask you a few questions about the vehicle regarding the age, make, model, and condition, and from there, give you a rough estimate. If you prefer a more precise estimate, you can bring your vehicle in and have it evaluated in person. However, if the company does not offer free pickup, you will have to pay to have it towed. In the case that the company does offer free pickup, and you choose not to accept their offer, you will have to reimburse them for the towing.

Prepare Your Vehicle

After you accept an offer, you will need to prove your ownership. A car title is the best way to do this, however, some junk car buyers will accept other documents that prove you are the owner, such as the registration. See our blog, “How Do I Replace a Lost or Stolen Car Title?” to learn more about obtaining one for your junk car. Locate the car title and have it ready for the junk car buyer when they arrive. Finish by clearing out all other personal belongings, including trash and your license plate. Once the junkcar4 buyer arrives to collect the vehicle, just give them the title and they will hand you cash or check.

Learn More About Selling a Junk Car in Indiana

When you really just don’t know who to trust when it comes to scrapping a salvaged vehicle in Indiana, simply go with the best. Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to request a free, over-the-phone quote, or more information regarding the junk car selling process. Whether your vehicle runs or not, we are ready to make you an excellent offer and take it off your hands for free. We have an in-house tow truck that will come directly to your location to pick up your junk car.

How Do I Get a Vehicle History Report in Indiana?

It is important to know what the history of a vehicle is before completing the purchasing paperwork. In other cases, you might want to learn the background of your car before you sell it in order to have a better idea of its potential worth. Regardless of your need for a vehicle history report, be sure you are taking the proper steps to acquire one from an approved source with accurate data.

Continue reading to learn your options for obtaining a history report for a vehicle in Indiana, and how to sell a car that no one else will buy.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Online Searches

The first place to start when looking for vehicle history information is the internet. This is simply the fastest and most comprehensive method of searching for vehicular history. However, be warned that not all vehicle history searches online are free. Some online searches require a non-refundable fee, which can range from a few dollars to $30 or more, depending on the supplier and the extent of information you are looking for.

Special Note: When looking for an online car history report source, be sure it is supported by data provided by the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS). This will be the most up-to-date and accurate information available to the general public.

Car Dealerships

Another option for recovering an official report for a vehicle’s history is to contact the dealership it was purchased from last. Although this option is not the most dependable source, it may be good for newer cars that have had few owners. Car dealerships should retain such documents on vehicles up to 3 years after their purchase date.

Keep in mind that there are some sources of vehicle history data that are not available to the general public. These sources include Carfax, CVR, DMVDesk, and Experian. These companies only provide information to official car dealerships.

How to Sell a Junk Car

If you discover that your vehicle has a salvaged title, you can sell it to a junk car buyer for a fail-safe way to get rid of it. Simply contact a local Indianapolis junk car company and tell them all about your vehicle. They will give you an offer, and upon accepting it, will come and pick it up the next day. Some junk car buyers will pay you cash on the spot and provide free tow-away service.

Trusted Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in Indianapolis. Our Indiana junk car buyers offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you cash. No title? No problem! Give us a call anyway! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, today.

What the Law Says About Scrapping Cars in Indiana

By reviewing all sections in Indiana Code § 9-22-5, you will learn everything you need to know about scrapping junk cars in our state. This literature can come with some confusing industry and legal jargon, making it difficult to fully understand the laws surrounding scrapping motor vehicles in Indiana. For this reason, we have compiled some fundamental facts and information derived from the Indiana Code for a brief rundown of what you can expect.

Continue reading to review them now!

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Scrapping Motor Vehicles – IC § 9-22-5-1.1

Here are some important points to take into consideration when scrapping a vehicle in Indiana:

You May Need a Certificate of Authority

According to the BMV, “A person who owns a vehicle that has a certificate of title that is faulty, lost, or destroyed, or who is the possessor of an abandoned vehicle may apply to the BMV for authority to sell, give away, or dispose of the vehicle for scrap metal without applying for a certificate of title. An approved Certificate of Authority – Disposal of a Motor Vehicle – State Form 55018 must be provided to the automotive salvage recycler, or other appropriate facility when disposing of the vehicle.”

You Need Proof of Ownership

In order to sell a junk car to a scrapper, you will need to prove ownership. According to IC § 9-22-3-4.4, “ (…)A copy of a certificate of title endorsed under IC 9-17-3-3.4 constitutes proof of transfer of ownership under subdivision (2).”

Try to Understand Fair Market Value

Fair market value is defined in IC § 9-22-3-2 as, “(1) the average trade-in value found in the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Official Used Car Guide, vehicle valuations determined by CCC Information Services, Inc. (CCC), or valuations determined by such other authorities as are approved by the bureau; or (2) the fair market value determined by the bureau upon request.”

Avoid a Class C Misdemeanor

According to IC § 9-18.1-4-8, it is a Class C misdemeanor if a person, “knowingly sells, offers to sell, buys, possesses, or offers as genuine a certificate of registration for a vehicle that is required to be issued by the bureau and has not been issued by the (1) bureau under this article; or (2)appropriate governmental authority of another state.”

Learn More About Selling a Junk Car in Indiana

When you really just don’t know who to trust when it comes to scrapping a salvaged vehicle in Indiana, simply go with the best. Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to request a free, over-the-phone quote, or more information regarding the junk car selling process. Whether your vehicle runs or not, we are ready to make you an excellent offer and take it off your hands for free. We have an in-house tow truck that will come directly to your location to pick up your junk car.

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

Does a Check Engine Light Mean My Car is Totaled?

A Check Engine Light, or Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL), is an important safety component in every vehicle. All modern make and model vehicles are designed with a Check Engine Light feature, which are incorporated to alert drivers when something is not quite right with the operation and systems in the vehicle. Because an illuminated Check Engine Light means that something is wrong, often times, car owners begin to panic when theirs comes on. Sometimes, a Check Engine Light can remain illuminated even after having a car repaired. In this situation, you might be asking yourself whether or not your car is worth repairing.

Continue reading to learn what a Check Engine Light could mean, including when it could mean that your car is totaled.

Sell Us Your Totaled Car! 317-608-2188
Sell Us Your Totaled Car! 317-608-2188

Reasons Why Check Engine Lights Come On

The spectrum of issues that cause a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp to illuminate range from minor to major. Some vehicles have two types of MIL’s, one that is solid and one that is flashing, both of which mean different warnings. Furthermore, some cars have two different colors of Malfunctioning Indicator Lamps; a yellow icon to indicate a problem, as well as, a red icon for a very serious problem that requires you to stop driving immediately.

Here’s Why Yours Might Be On Right Now:

? Loose Gap Cap – This is by far the most common minor reason why a Check Engine Light might illuminate. If you just filled up your tank, chances are, your Check Engine Light came on because your gas cap came off.

? Spark Plugs – If your car jolts or vibrates as its operating, and the Check Engine Light comes on, it could mean that your spark plugs are defective. If your car is driving abnormally, immediately pull over and call a tow truck.

? Low Fluids – If your vehicle is low on radiator fluid (coolant), motor oil, or another vital automotive fluid, your Check Engine Light might come on. Have your oil changed, and during the appointment, have all other fluids flushed and replaced.

? Oxygen (O2) Sensor (O2) – If your Check Engine Light comes on, and you know it’s not the gas cap or fluid levels, it could be because your oxygen sensor needs to be replaced. This part is responsible for measuring the level of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system.

? Catalytic Converter – If your catalytic converter is experiencing any type of problem, your Check Engine Light will let you know.

? Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) – Another common cause for an illuminated Check Engine Light is a defective mass airflow sensor (MAF). If this sensor is the problem, a simple replacement will turn that Check Engine Light back off.

When it Means a Car is Totaled

There are cases in which an illuminated Check Engine Light can mean that a car is totaled. If the Check Engine Light comes on because of something that requires extensive repairs or replacements that cost more than the overall value of the vehicle, the insurance company will likely deem the car a total loss. See our blog, “FAQS About Total Loss Cars and Claims” to learn more about total loss vehicles.

What You Can Do With a Totaled Car

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get paid cash for your totaled car in Indianapolis. Our Indiana junk car buyers offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you cash. No title? No problem! Give us a call anyway! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, today.

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188