The best places to sell a totaled car are through online car buyers like Carvana or CarMax, specialized salvage auctions such as Copart or IAA, and by obtaining a direct offer from your insurance company if they've declared it a total loss. Selling a car that has been "totaled"—meaning the cost of repairs exceeds a certain percentage of the car's actual cash value (ACV), often around 70-75%—requires a specific approach to maximize your return.
Your first step should always be to get the salvage title from your state's DMV. This legally reclassifies the vehicle and is required for any sale. Then, gather multiple offers. Large online buyers can provide a quick, no-hassle quote online, though their offer may be lower for a non-running vehicle. Salvage auctions connect you with a national market of dismantlers and rebuilders, potentially yielding a higher price, but often involve fees.
The most critical factor is the extent of the damage and the vehicle's inherent value. A newer luxury car with primarily cosmetic damage is far more valuable than an old sedan with a seized engine. The table below illustrates how different factors can influence the final salvage value.
| Vehicle Type | Extent of Damage | Potential Buyer | Estimated Salvage Value (% of pre-accident ACV) | Key Consideration |
|---|
| 2022 Toyota Camry | Front-end collision (airbags deployed) | Salvage Auction | 25% - 40% | High demand for parts can increase value. |
| 2018 Ford F-150 | Hail damage (no mechanical issues) | Online Car Buyer | 40% - 60% | Repairable; attractive to body shops. |
| 2015 Honda Civic | Flood damage (engine hydro-locked) | Scrap Yard/Junkyard | 5% - 15% | Low value; sold primarily for scrap metal. |
| 2019 BMW 3 Series | Rear-end collision (frame damage) | Specialized Salvage Auction | 20% - 35% | Desirable model, but complex repairs. |
| 2010 Chevrolet Impala | Theft recovery (stripped interior) | Parts Scrap Yard | 10% - 20% | Low residual value; part-out may be best. |
Regardless of the path you choose, be prepared to provide the VIN, mileage, photos of the damage, and the status of your title. Getting multiple quotes is the single best way to ensure you receive a fair price for your totaled vehicle.
