4 Rules for Getting Best Value for a Salvage Vehicle

by Kevin Smith Author

A lot of vehicle-salvage articles are geared towards what you must do to make sure you have a successful experience. What, though, do you need to look out for? If you are on the market for salvage car removal in Clare, MI, here is a list of behavior by salvage personnel that should make you wary.

Price Reductions

Most salvage yards will honor the price they quoted as long as you are upfront about the condition of your vehicle. Some though, will try and reduce your payment compared to the estimated cost. You should never sign the title until you have a reliable check in the correct amount in your hand first. If the salvage personnel try and renegotiate the price at the junkyard, refuse it outright and do not be afraid to walk away. Some salvage operations bet on the vehicle owner wanting to offload the vehicle so much they will settle for any price that is offered.

Payment Delay and Towing Charges

Do not let a tow operator or salvage yard personnel take possession of your car until you have a payment. If possible, do not let the tow personnel even put the vehicle on the tow hook. If you have a dispute on payment, some yards will charge you for towing as soon as it is hitched. If the vehicle is in the salvage yard, do not sign the title over until you are paid. Also, unless you agreed to deliver the vehicle to the salvage yard, the price you were quoted should include towing.

The Zero Value Vehicle

Unless your vehicle has been ground down to a fine dust, no vehicle is without at least some value. Some salvage yards will try and convince you they are doing you a favor by taking the vehicle off your hands. Do not accept that. If an estimate is quoted at zero or the cost of the tow, find someone else to do business with.

Ad Hoc Towing Services

Most salvage companies will have their own towing service, but some will take anyone available. Be cautious if you are to be paid in cash for your vehicle; make sure you get what was promised. If the driver gives you a check, but then asks for a towing fee, call the salvage yard and do not relinquish the vehicle or title.

In the vast majority of cases, salvage operations are above board. Some, though, are not. If you are looking for salvage car removal in Clare MI, follow these rules and you will ensure your salvage experience will be to your liking.