When purchasing a used vehicle, there are many different factors to consider. In addition to factors such as the cost, make, model, and mileage, it is also extremely important to consider the title of the vehicle in question.
A vehicle’s title or “pink slip” is a document issued by a state department of motor vehicles that establishes the legal ownership of the vehicle and can provide important insight into the vehicle’s history and current condition. Vehicle titles fall into two primary categories: clean or branded. To make an informed purchasing decision, it is important to be aware of the large distinction between the two types.
While clean title vehicles simply refer to vehicles that have never been deemed a total loss by an insurance agency, branded title cars are a bit more complicated. To better understand what a branded title is, what the different types of branded titles are, and what you should know before purchasing a branded vehicle, consult this guide on everything you need to know about branded title cars.
What Is a Branded Title Car?
Branded titles are issued to vehicles by a state agency to indicate that they have sustained damage and may be unsafe to drive. If a vehicle has a branded title, it can’t legally be registered or driven. However, it is possible to legally change a branded title to a clear or rebuilt title by completing and documenting the required repairs, passing a professional inspection, and applying for a rebranded title from your state’s title department. Once the title is legally changed to a clear or rebuilt title, the owner can proceed to register and drive the vehicle.
It is important to note that a branded title vehicle won’t simply have the word “branded” written on the pink slip. Instead, it will have one of the many different types of branded titles listed below. Such titles will provide further insight into the current state of the vehicle and why an insurance agency deemed the vehicle a total loss.
Different Types of Branded Titles
Reasons To Purchase a Branded Title Vehicle
So, why would someone want to purchase a vehicle that has likely sustained substantial damage and that they aren’t legally allowed to drive on the road in its current state? We have five words for you: to get a great deal. While branded title vehicles may be a little worse for wear than their clean title counterparts, their less desirable condition is reflected in their much lower price tag.
Generally, branded title vehicles sell for only a fraction of the cost of a used vehicle that has never sustained substantial damage. As such, they are often a great option for people who are on a budget—especially those who have a knack for mechanics and enjoy the challenge of fixing up a previously unroadworthy vehicle. Or, perhaps you’ve had your eye on a luxury or vintage model but haven’t been able to justify the exorbitant price tag. Purchasing a vehicle with a branded title is a great way to purchase the car of your dreams without draining your savings.
What To Know Before Purchasing a Branded Title Vehicle
Because branded titles have more complex vehicle histories than clean title vehicles, it is important to exercise caution when purchasing a branded title vehicle. If you are interested in purchasing a vehicle with a branded title, it is imperative that you make sure the seller is a reputable dealer who offers full transparency, so you can avoid getting a bad deal.
You should also take the time to conduct a thorough vehicle inspection and acquire the vehicle’s history report so you are aware of the extent of the damage. Then, create an estimate of how much the repairs would cost to see if you are actually getting a good deal. If you need replacement parts, it’s also a good idea to consider part availability for the vehicle make and model to ensure you will be able to acquire any essential components.
Lastly, you should make sure to see if you can get vehicle insurance for the branded title vehicle. Not all vehicle insurance agencies are willing to cover branded title vehicles, and some only offer limited coverage, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase.
If you are interested in getting a great deal on a branded title vehicle, take a look at our extensive online inventory at the AE of Miami. As the premier seller of branded title vehicles in the United States, we offer a wide range of damaged cars for sale in Miami and export our vehicles to all major U.S. ports. To ensure our customers know exactly what they are purchasing, we provide full transparency in the form of detailed vehicle descriptions on every one of our listings. To learn more about our products and find a vehicle that is right for you, contact us today.
