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

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.

Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Totaled Car to a Trusted Auto Scrap Yard in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Totaled Car to a Trusted Auto Scrap Yard in Indianapolis Indiana

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.

GC’s Junk Cars pays cash on the spot for all junk cars, including totaled ones! Contact us at 317-608-2188 to sell a totaled car in Indianapolis, Indiana, today! 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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The Pros and Cons of Making a Total Loss Car Insurance Claim

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!

Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Total Loss Vehicle in Indianapolis
Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Total Loss Vehicle in Indianapolis

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!

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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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10 Common Signs of an Unhealthy Car Engine

The car engine is the heart of your car and needs to be in top shape for it to perform at its best. But when something goes wrong, it can cause a lot of problems that could lead to costly car repairs or even engine replacement. That’s why it’s important to know the signs that indicate an unhealthy car engine so you can take action as soon as possible.

Continue below to learn the top 10 common signs of an unhealthy car engine that you should look out for.

To Sell Broken Motor in Indianapolis, Call 317-608-2188 for the best offer.
To Sell Broken Motor in Indianapolis, Call 317-608-2188 for the best offer.

10 Signs That Suggest You Need Engine Repair or Replacement

1. Unusual Noises: If you start hearing strange noises coming from under the hood, it could mean that something is wrong with your car engine and needs to be repaired as soon as possible.

2. Stalling or Hesitation: If your car stalls or hesitates when you press the accelerator, this could indicate a problem with the car engine and should be checked out.

3. Poor Acceleration: If your car struggles to accelerate, it could indicate that the car engine isn’t functioning properly.

4. Unusual Smells: Any strange smells coming from under the hood of your car can mean there is something wrong with the car engine, so take it to the mechanic for a car engine repair.

5. Overheating Engine: If you notice your car’s temperature gauge rising above normal levels, your car engine is likely overheating, which means it needs to be checked out by a professional as soon as possible.

6. Loss of Power: If you notice your car losing power, it could be a sign that the car engine is malfunctioning and needs to be serviced as soon as possible.

7. Vibrations: If your car starts vibrating while you’re driving, this could indicate a problem with the car engine which should be inspected by a mechanic right away.

8. Excessive Exhaust Smoke: If you see excessive smoke coming from your car’s exhaust pipe, it could be a sign of an unhealthy car engine and should be checked out by a professional.

9. Leaking Oil: Any leaks coming from the car engine can indicate that something is wrong with your car and should be taken to a car engine repair shop as soon as possible.

10. Decreased Fuel Efficiency: If your car isn’t getting the fuel efficiency it used to, this could indicate a problem with the car engine which needs to be looked at by a professional.

Good Car Maintenance Can Protect You From Costly Engine Repairs

Being aware of these 10 common signs of an unhealthy car engine can help you take preventative action and avoid costly car repairs or even a blown engine. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to get your car checked out right away so that the car engine repair or replacement can be done as soon as possible.

Average Cost of Car Engine Replacement

Replacing a car engine may be one of the most expensive car repairs that a car owner could experience. The cost of car engine replacement varies widely, but typically falls in the range of $3,000 to $4,500, depending on vehicle make and model as well as complexity of the replacement job. It is always important to shop around for the best rates and compare quotes from different repair shops to make sure that you are getting a good price. You should also take into account the type and quality of car parts used when considering car engine replacement costs. By taking these steps to ensure you are getting a fair price, you can save yourself time and money in the long run.

What To Do if You Can’t Afford to Repair Your Car Engine

Selling a car with a broken engine can easily be done by junk car buyers, more commonly known as auto salvage yards. These junk car dealers are always looking for scrap metal and usable parts from junk cars in order to refurbish and resell them. As long as the junk car has body integrity, it can still provide scrap metal to the junk car buyer. Once your junk car is evaluated and the cost determined, you’ll know the potential worth of selling it to an auto salvage yard right away. Once payment is made you can have it removed from your property quickly, so you no longer need to keep dealing with it or its broken engine.

Searching for junk car buyers that provide the highest level of service and convenience? Look no further–you’ve come to the right place! 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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5 Tips for Selling Your Junk Car Quickly

Do you have an old junk car that’s taking up space on your property? If so, selling it quickly can be a challenge. But with the right approach and some patience, you can get cash for junk cars in no time. In this blog post, we’ll share our top five tips to help you sell your junk car quickly and easily. From finding the right Indianapolis junk car buyer to negotiating a fair price, these simple steps will make sure you get the most out of selling your junk vehicle. So, let’s dive in!

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

How to Sell a Junk Car Faster Than You Can Say “Cha-Ching!”

1. Research Indianapolis junk car buyers in your area: The first step to successfully selling your junk car is researching the junk car buyers in your vicinity. Look for established auto salvage companies with a good reputation and competitive cash for cars offers. A quick online search should provide you with a list of junk car buyers in Indianapolis, making it easy to compare prices and pick the best option.

2. Gather all necessary paperwork: As you research scrap yards in Indianapolis, make sure to gather up all the required documents needed to sell your junk car. These typically include a valid title and proof of ownership, vehicle registration papers, and other documents that may vary by junk car buyer or state.

3. Get an estimate of your junk car’s value: Before you reach out to junk car buyers, take some time to get an accurate valuation of your junk vehicle. This will help make sure you don’t accept a low-ball offer from a junk yard or auto salvage company in Indianapolis. You can find online tools for estimating junk car values, or get an evaluation from an experienced junk car scrapper.

4. Negotiate a fair price: Once you have an estimate of your junk car’s value, you can start negotiating with junk yards and auto salvage companies to get the best Indianapolis cash for cars offer. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare prices between junk car buyers. This can help ensure that you get a fair price for your junk vehicle.

5. Prepare the junk car before selling: To make sure you get top dollar for your junk car, it’s important to prepare it properly before selling. This includes cleaning out any debris and personal items from the interior, making sure the junk car is in the condition you claimed it was, and ensuring that all paperwork is filled out correctly.

Obtain the Best Possible Cash for Cars Experience

By following these tips, you can maximize your junk car’s value while minimizing the time it takes to get cash for junk cars. With a bit of luck and patience, you should be able to find a reliable Indianapolis junk car buyer quickly and get a great cash offer.

Looking for junk car buying professionals who offer the highest level of service and convenience? Look no further – you’ve found us! 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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Do I Need to Get an Oil Change?

The car’s oil is one of the most important fluids, and it needs to be changed regularly in order to keep the car running properly. If you’re unsure whether or not your car needs an oil change, it’s always best to consult with a professional mechanic. They can help you determine if it’s time for a change, and they can also perform the task for you.

In the meantime, continue below to learn the common signs that suggest you need an oil change, why oil changes are important, and what might happen if you skip your regularly-scheduled oil change service.

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

When to Change Your Oil

There are a few different signs that suggest you need an oil change, so it’s important to be aware of them. One common sign that your car needs an oil change is if the oil level is low. You can check this by looking at the dipstick; if the oil level is below the minimum line, then it’s time for a change. Another sign is if the oil looks dark and dirty. This means that it’s not doing its job of lubricating and cooling the engine as effectively, so it needs to be replaced.

If your car’s engine is making strange noises, this can also be a sign that the oil needs to be changed. If you notice any knocking or ticking sounds, it’s best to get it checked out by a mechanic. Finally, if your car is due for an oil change according to the manufacturer’s schedule, then it’s definitely time to get it done. Don’t put it off, as old, dirty oil can cause serious damage to your engine.

Refer to the Owners’ Manual for Your Oil Change Schedule

Oil changes are an important part of maintaining your vehicle. Not only do they keep your engine running smoothly, but they also help to prolong the life of your car. Depending on your driving habits, you should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual to see what the specific recommendation is for your car. You can also ask your handy automotive mechanic for their advice.

What to Expect From Oil Change Service

When you bring your car in for an oil change, a team of certified technicians will drain the old oil and replace it with fresh, new oil. They will also check your other fluids and make sure that your tires are properly inflated. All of this helps to keep your car running at peak performance. So, don’t put off your oil change any longer. Schedule an appointment as recommended by your owners’ manual or mechanic so that you can keep your car on the road for miles to come.

Consequences of Driving With Low or No Oil

If you drive with low oil, it can cause your engine to seize up. This means that the engine will no longer be able to turn over, and you will not be able to start your car. If this happens, it can cause serious damage to your engine. In some cases, it may even require a new engine. This can sometimes cost more than what your car is actually worth. In this case, consider selling a totaled car to an Indianapolis junk car buyer for cash on the spot.

Is your car totaled because of a broken down engine? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free junk car removal, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Request a free estimate, today.

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Why is My Check Engine Light Flashing?

Uh oh. Your Check Engine Light icon just lit up. And instead of being the usual solid symbol or phrase, it is flashing. Is this nothing to worry about? Does this mean something serious? Continue below to learn some of the most common reasons why Check Engine Lights come on, including the meanings behind solid and flashing symbols.

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

Check Engine Light Diagnosis

Before diving into the difference between a flashing Check Engine Light and a solid one, let’s cover some of the most common reasons why Check Engine Lights illuminate in the first place. Answer some questions, like “Did you just add fuel to your tank with gas?” or “Did your car jolt or vibrate the last time you drove it?” The answers to these questions can help you narrow down the cause behind the symbol. If you forgot to tighten your gas cap all the way, for instance, your car’s onboard computer system will trigger the Check Engine Light to turn on. If you felt a jolting, jerking, or vibrating movement from your car the last time you drove it, the culprit could be a quick fix like a worn spark plug.

Flashing Check Engine Light Versus Solid

For most vehicles, the Check Engine Light will illuminate in all its glory as a solid symbol or phrase to warn against minor to moderate problems. Some vehicles have a Check Engine Light that comes up solid or flashing. In vehicles that only have a solid Check Engine Light symbol, the color of the icon might change from sun colors to red to indicate a more serious issue.

If the symbol or phrase are flashing, it generally indicates a more serious problem. A flashing Check Engine Light suggests that you have an automotive emergency and should have your vehicle towed, that’s right, towed to the nearest mechanic shop for diagnosis. Driving with the Check Engine Light on is dangerous because it poses several safety risks, but also does a lot of damage to a vehicle.

Common reasons for a flashing Check Engine Light are engine misfiring and overheating. Both of these mechanical defects can do significant damage to the internal parts of the engine block, including cylinders, pistons, spark plugs, and more.

Red Check Engine Light

As mentioned, in addition to solid and flashing, Check Engine Lights can also be different colors, which might signify different types of mechanical needs. In most vehicles, a yellow or orange Check Engine Light denotes a minor to moderate mechanical, safety, or performance issue in a vehicle. If the light turns red, it is indicating an automotive repair emergency. In this case, a car should never be driven.

Did your car’s diagnosis come back totaled? Not to worry! You can still make a generous profit by selling it to a trusted Cash for Cars Company near you! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to speak 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!

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Can I Choose to Keep My Car After Totaling It?

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
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!

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What To Do if You Think There is a Dead Animal in Your Car

Animals like mice, rats, squirrels, chipmunks, birds, raccoons, opossums, and even cats are notorious for destroying vehicles by using them as shelters. An accessible vehicle provides them with all the warmth and privacy they need for the winter season. Now that spring is here, warmer weather should draw these critters out; that is, if the critter survived. Having an animal die somewhere inside your car is a bad scenario. The smell can be intolerable and perpetuating, plus the challenge of removing them tends to be tedious and costly.

If you think you have a dead animal inside your car, there are a few things you need to know. Scroll down to learn important tips about locating the dead animal, removing the dead animal smell, repairing the damages caused by their infestation, and selling your car if it is deemed totaled.

Sell Your Junk Car in Indianapolis! 317-608-2188
Sell Your Junk Car in Indianapolis! 317-608-2188

How Animals Get Inside Vehicles

Abandoned or stationary cars are prime targets for animals seeking winter shelter accommodations. Critters tend to gain access to the interior parts of the vehicle by entering underneath. Openings in the vehicle’s undercarriage allow small critters to work their way inside trunks, under hoods, in mufflers, within door jams, and inside the ventilation system. If you have a vehicle that is not driven for long periods of time, it is wise to routinely inspect it for signs of animal infestation. Look underneath the car, under the hood, and in the trunk. Common signs of animals in cars include animal droppings, chewed up materials, nesting debris, and paw prints.

Getting a Dead Animal Out of Your Car

If you find a dead animal in your car and you can reach it, wear gloves to remove it. Then soak the dead animal in a disinfectant solution for 5 minutes before double-bagging it in a sealable plastic bag. When you are done, toss it in the garbage for trash collection.

If you see the signs and know there’s an animal in your car but you can’t reach it, you might have to take it into a mechanic to get it out. Cars have a lot of nooks and crannies that cannot be accessed without a little dismantling.

Because it is difficult to spot the signs of a car animal infestation, in most cases the animal winds up dead before the owner even knows it was there. Dead animal odor coming from the vehicle is usually the first indication noticed by car owners.

How Animal Infestations Damage Cars

Having an animal infest your vehicle will not do your vehicle any good. In fact, it will cause a lot of damage. Not only will their droppings and urine damage inner components, including electrical wiring and upholstery, but their chewing and tampering can damage the electrical wiring and other electrical systems in the vehicle. Nesting materials and food scraps can obstruct hoses and weigh down belts, plus clog up other important mechanical systems.

These damages are extensive, making them quite expensive to repair. For this reason, most cars that fall victim to animal infestation, especially ones in which the animal dies inside, are deemed a total loss. This means that the cost to repair them back to a safe and operational condition exceeds the current value of the vehicle.

Removing Dead Animal Smell

Eliminating dead animal smell in a car is a challenging project that typically requires a combination of methods. If the dead animal burrowed into the ventilation system, the entire vehicle would need to be professionally sanitized to ensure there are no hazardous particles present in the passenger cabin. Otherwise, you will need to implement a series of cleaning, deodorizing, and sanitizing steps to get rid of dead animal smell in a car. This includes using fumigation technologies and deodorizer bombs.

Is your car totaled because of a long-term animal infestation? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free junk car removal, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Request a free estimate, today.

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