What Is Salvage?
Salvage is what is left of your insured property after a total loss. When an insurer pays a totaled car’s value, it takes ownership of the wreck (the salvage) and sells it to recover part of the payout. A "salvage title" brand then follows that vehicle, marking it as previously totaled.
Why it matters
The salvage value is why a totaled car’s payout is the car’s value minus what the insurer expects to recover by selling the wreck.
Common confusion
Salvage is the insurer’s recovered asset, not money you get; you get the car’s actual cash value, and the insurer keeps the wreck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my totaled car?
Yes, by retaining the salvage — the insurer pays the value minus the salvage amount, and you get a branded title.
What is a salvage-title car?
One previously declared a total loss and rebuilt or resold; it carries lower value and harder insurance.