Purchasing a rebuilt title vehicle can save you a lot of money upfront compared to similar clean title cars. However, finding affordable insurance for a rebuilt title car can be a challenge. Many major insurance providers like Geico, Allstate, and Progressive don’t offer coverage for rebuilt titles. Fortunately, State Farm is one company that will insure rebuilt title cars if certain requirements are met.
What is a Rebuilt Title?
When a car sustains damage where repairs would cost more than the vehicle’s value, the insurance company deems it a total loss. The title is changed to a salvage title, meaning the car can’t legally be driven until repaired. Once repaired, it may be eligible for a rebuilt title, allowing it to be legally driven again.
Rebuilt title cars can be great deals, but insurers view them as riskier to cover Many providers won’t insure them at all. State Farm is more open to covering rebuilt titles if specific criteria are satisfied.
Why Do Many Insurers Avoid Rebuilt Titles?
There are a few reasons rebuilt titles make insurers nervous:
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Unclear repair history – It may be uncertain how well repairs were done or if underlying issues remain This makes assessing risk difficult
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Preexisting conditions – In a claim it can be hard to separate new damage from old. Insurers don’t want to pay for preexisting problems.
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Safety concerns – Shoddy repairs or undetected issues could present safety hazards.
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Lower value – Rebuilt cars are worth less, so providers limit coverage amounts.
Higher perceived risk means higher premiums for rebuilt title owners. Many insurers opt to avoid them altogether. State Farm is more willing with certain stipulations.
State Farm’s Requirements for Insuring Rebuilt Titles
State Farm will insure rebuilt titles if you provide:
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Repair records – Showing work done to make your car roadworthy again.
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Mechanic inspection – From a certified mechanic affirming your car’s current safe condition.
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Photos – Illustrating your car’s state helps the insurer properly value it.
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Report – On any necessary repairs done before getting coverage.
Meeting these requirements demonstrates your rebuilt car is reasonably safe to insure. State Farm then feels more comfortable covering it.
Considering Coverage Types for Your Rebuilt Title
At minimum, you need liability insurance meeting your state’s requirements. Beyond that, consider:
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Collision – Covers repairs from accidents you cause.
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Comprehensive – For non-collision damage like weather, theft, vandalism.
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Uninsured motorist – Pays if an uninsured driver hits you.
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Rental reimbursement – Repays car rental costs during repairs.
Full coverage with collision, comprehensive, and liability is recommended for rebuilt cars of sufficient value. But weigh the cost of premiums against potential repair bills.
Paying More for Insurance on Your Rebuilt Title
Insurers view rebuilt titles as riskier, so you’ll likely pay higher premiums. Ways to potentially lower your costs:
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Raise your deductible
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Drop unnecessary coverage
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Ask about discounts
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Maintain a good driving record
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Compare quotes from insurers like State Farm
The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Weigh coverage, cost, and company reputation when choosing insurance for your rebuilt title vehicle.
Why Consider State Farm for Insuring Your Rebuilt Car
Compared to other major insurers, State Farm is more amenable to covering rebuilt titles when requirements are met. Additional reasons to consider them:
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Industry experience – Operating since 1922 means long-standing expertise.
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Strong financials – An AM Best rating of A++ indicates excellent financial strength.
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Discounts – Options like safe driver and anti-theft device discounts can reduce premiums.
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Rewards program – Drive Safe & SaveTM uses an app to monitor driving habits and offers discounts based on your safety.
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Local agents – Get guidance from a neighborhood State Farm agent who knows your area.
For many rebuilt title owners, State Farm represents one of the better chances at finding affordable, reputable insurance. Meet their stipulations and request quotes to see if they’re the right fit. With persistence, you can gain coverage for your rebuilt car.
Insuring a Salvage Title Car: What You Need To Know
FAQ
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