A rebuilt vehicle, also known as “prior salvage,” means it was branded “salvage” but was rebuilt to road worthiness. A rebuilt vehicle must pass safety and anti-theft inspections, and other state-mandated standards in order to return to the road.
Your Texas title will include the "Rebuilt Salvage" brand.
| NMVTIS Brand | Description |
| Rebuilt | Vehicle was previously branded “salvage” but was rebuilt to road worthiness. |
| Prior Owner Retained | Vehicle was previously branded "Owner Retained" and was sold. The new owner's title contains this brand. |
| Prior Non-Repairable / Repaired | Vehicle was constructed by repairing a vehicle that has been destroyed or declared to be non-repairable but has been issued a title pursuant to state law after falling within this criterion with this brand on the face of the certificate of title. |
When looking to purchase a used vehicle you might see one with a rebuilt title. The term “rebuilt” varies slightly from state-to-state, but is generally used to describe a salvaged vehicle that was repaired or restored. The vehicle previously carried a salvage title after it was damaged and considered totaled and inoperable. However, the vehicle was restored and title changed from salvage to rebuilt.
Considerations when looking at purchasing a rebuilt vehicle:
- What was the extent of damage and where was the vehicle repaired? Some companies use damaged parts or cut and weld pieces together to create a replacement part.
- Was the frame damaged and was the frame aligned properly? A misaligned frame can cause excessive wear and strain to the drive train, wheels, tires and brakes.
- Was the vehicle examined and certified by an independent and qualified mechanic? Have an expert mechanic thoroughly inspect the vehicle. Rebuilt vehicles can cause problems that will cost more to repair than the actual value of the vehicle.
- Can the vehicle be insured? Often rebuilt vehicles are denied insurance. Check with your insurance agent before purchasing the vehicle.
- How much is the vehicle worth? The value of rebuilt vehicles vary. However, they will always be worth substantially less because they were salvage vehicles.