What Is a Rebuilt Title?
At Carma Auto Group, we believe in complete transparency. Whether you're considering a rebuilt title vehicle or simply want to understand what it means, we're here to provide clear, honest answers to help you make an informed decision.
What a Rebuilt Title Means in Simple Terms
A rebuilt title indicates that a vehicle was previously declared a total loss by an insurance company, but has since been professionally repaired and passed a state inspection to be deemed roadworthy again. Think of it as a vehicle that's been given a second chance — restored to safe, drivable condition and cleared by authorities to return to the road.
The "rebuilt" designation is permanently recorded on the vehicle's title, ensuring full transparency for all future owners about the car's history.
How a Vehicle Gets a Rebuilt Title
The journey from damaged vehicle to rebuilt title involves several important steps:
- Insurance Total Loss: The vehicle is involved in an accident, flood, theft recovery, or other incident where repair costs exceed a certain percentage of its value.
- Salvage Title Issued: The insurance company takes ownership and issues a salvage title, marking the vehicle as non-operational.
- Professional Repairs: A qualified mechanic or body shop completes all necessary repairs to restore the vehicle to safe operating condition.
- State Inspection: The repaired vehicle undergoes a rigorous state-mandated inspection to verify safety and roadworthiness.
- Rebuilt Title Issued: Once approved, the state issues a rebuilt title, allowing the vehicle to be legally driven, registered, and sold.
Salvage vs. Rebuilt: What's the Difference?
Salvage Title
- Vehicle declared total loss
- Cannot be legally driven
- Cannot be registered
- Typically cannot be insured
- Needs repairs and inspection
Rebuilt Title
- Previously salvage, now repaired
- Legal to drive on public roads
- Can be registered normally
- Can be insured (coverage varies)
- Passed state safety inspection
Why Rebuilt Title Vehicles Can Still Be Reliable
Many people assume that a rebuilt title automatically means an unreliable vehicle. That's not necessarily true. Here's why rebuilt title cars can be excellent choices:
- Quality Repairs: Many rebuilt vehicles are restored by skilled professionals using OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts.
- Cosmetic Damage: Some vehicles receive salvage titles due to cosmetic damage that doesn't affect mechanical systems.
- Theft Recovery: Stolen vehicles recovered after insurance payout may have minimal or no damage.
- State Oversight: Rebuilt titles require passing safety inspections, adding a layer of verification.
- Significant Savings: Rebuilt title vehicles often cost 20-40% less than comparable clean-title cars.
Common Inspections & Requirements
Before a rebuilt title can be issued, vehicles must typically pass comprehensive inspections. While requirements vary by state, Georgia's process generally includes:
Common Questions About Rebuilt Titles
Get honest answers to the questions we hear most from customers in Duluth and across the Southeast.
Is a rebuilt title car safe to drive?
Yes, when properly repaired and inspected. A rebuilt title means the vehicle has passed state safety inspections and is certified roadworthy. The key is understanding the vehicle's history and ensuring repairs were completed by qualified professionals. At Carma Auto Group, we thoroughly vet every vehicle we sell, providing you with complete transparency about its condition and history.
Can I insure a rebuilt title vehicle?
Absolutely. Most insurance companies will provide coverage for rebuilt title vehicles. However, coverage options and rates may vary. Some insurers offer full coverage including collision and comprehensive, while others may limit coverage to liability only. We recommend contacting your insurance provider before purchase to understand your options. Many of our Duluth customers have found competitive rates without issue.
Can I finance a rebuilt title vehicle?
Yes, financing is available for rebuilt title vehicles, though options may differ from clean-title financing. Some traditional lenders have restrictions, but many credit unions, specialized auto lenders, and dealership financing programs work with rebuilt titles. At Carma Auto Group, our expert financing team can help you explore options that fit your situation, regardless of the title type.
Apply for FinancingHow does Carma Auto Group inspect and verify these vehicles?
At Carma Auto Group, we take quality seriously. Every vehicle — including those with rebuilt titles — goes through our comprehensive inspection process:
- Complete vehicle history report review
- Multi-point mechanical inspection
- Structural integrity assessment
- Safety systems verification
- Road test evaluation
- Full disclosure of repair history
We only offer vehicles we're confident in, and we're always transparent about a vehicle's background. That's the Carma way.
Peace of Mind with Every Purchase
Concerned about protection? Carma Auto Group offers extended coverage options and warranty packages to give you confidence in your purchase. Our commitment doesn't end when you drive off the lot — we're here for the long haul.
Still Have Questions?
Our knowledgeable team at Carma Auto Group in Duluth, GA is here to help. Whether you're curious about a specific vehicle or want to learn more about rebuilt titles, we're happy to provide honest, straightforward answers.