subject: What Are The Procedures Involved In A Salvaged Vehicle Inspection? [print this page] What Are The Procedures Involved In A Salvaged Vehicle Inspection?
A salvage title refers to two types of vehicles. The first is a vehicle that has been considered a total loss by an insurance company. A total loss is when the cost of repairing the damage is too high a percentage or over the cost of the vehicle itself. The damage can be from an accident, but can range from weather-induced to theft recovery. A salvage title is given when the sold vehicle is repaired for road worthiness. Government vehicles that have been used for testing or certification are also given salvage titles. Due to the range of vehicles that can hold a salvage title, they cannot simply be unleashed back on the road, therefore, they have to be inspected.
So, what are the procedures involved in a salvaged vehicle inspection? This actually varies from state to state. Some states' department of motor vehicles perform basic inspections such as emissions and VIN number checks while others may follow the North American guidelines as set forth by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA).
The AAMVA alongside the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA) in recognition that there are attempts to profit on vehicles with salvage titles added procedures to their Vehicle Inspection handbook in order to protect the consumer from misrepresentation of salvaged motor vehicles. The aim isto ensure that the vehicle is safe for operation.
The handbook offers a recommended 13 point inspection to identify any deficient areas that would pose risk to safe operation. Inspectors are instructed what to look for to deliver a pass or fail verdict.
After carrying the vehicle to the local DMV to apply for a salvage title, they may use part or all of the 13 steps listed in the AAMVA's Vehicle Inspection Handbook:
Hood/Bumpers/Doors: All doors should open and shut properly with both primary and secondary hinges passing an undamaged visual inspection. Bumpers must be affixed at correct height.
Windshield and other vehicular glass: All sealant for the glass must comply with the manufacturer's specifications.
Air Bags and Seatbelts: VIN number will be checked to ascertain if the vehicle came equipped with airbags from factory. Airbag function will be confirmed electronically.
Seats: Must be mounted properly at correct height and show no damage.
Sun Visor and rearview mirror: Must be in factory locations.
Windshield wipers/Washers/Defroster/Interior Heating: All must operate within specifications before title application.
Rear Hatch/Trunk: Must close properly, not be misaligned or allow exhaust fumes into the passenger compartment.
Steering/Suspension: All parts must be visually inspected for damage and function properly.
Engine Compartment: All wiring must be up to specifications. The engine must be securely positioned and mounted. Necessary linkages must be unbroken as well.
ABS System: Must pass physical and electrical inspection.
Body Panels: Cannot be badly deformed as to hinder doors or prove hazardous to pedestrians.
Frame/Undercarriage: Must be thoroughly tested for rust and deformations that may hinder its ability to secure any vital item attached to it.
