How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Oregon
September 20, 2023
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In Oregon, a reconstructed title (also known as a rebuilt title) is obligatory to validate the restoration of a vehicle previously deemed a total loss by an auto insurance company. This certification ensures that the car has been reconstructed per legal standards.
You must apply for a salvage title to get a rebuilt title in Oregon. Also, you must undertake the repairs to restore the vehicle and provide supporting documentation to ensure the vehicle is suitable to be on the road again.
In this article, we will share with you all the details about how to get a rebuilt title in Oregon. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Oregon
- Rebuilt Title vs. Salvage Title
- Comprehensive or Collision Coverage for a Rebuilt Title in Oregon
- The Cost of a Rebuilt Title and Salvage Title in Oregon
- Applying for a Rebuilt Title If the Vehicle Was Declared a Total Loss Due to Flood Damage
- Financing a Vehicle With a Rebuilt Title in Oregon
- Best Car Deals by Category
- Frequently Asked Questions
How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Oregon
Rebuilt titles are important if you wish to use or sell a wrecked vehicle. Here are the detailed steps to get a rebuilt title in Oregon:
1. Apply For a Salvage Title in Oregon.
To initiate the application process for a salvaged title through the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division, you will need to gather the following items:
- A fully completed Application for Salvage Title (Form 735-229).
- The original vehicle title or an alternative proof of ownership.
- Proof of interest release from any previous vehicle owners, including lienholders or lessors.
- In the case of vehicles that are 20 years old or newer, an odometer disclosure is mandatory. You can use the car title's back or obtain a Secure Odometer Disclosure from a local Oregon DMV office.
- Payment of the $27 salvage title fee is also required.
The necessary documentation can be submitted personally at your local DMV agency or by mailing.
Contact the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division for assistance if you encounter difficulties compiling your salvage title application.
It is essential to remember that once the DMV issues the salvaged title, the car's registration will be canceled.
Renewing the registration or obtaining and displaying license plates for a vehicle with a salvaged title is not permitted. To transport the salvaged vehicle, you must acquire a trip permit.
2. Repair Your Vehicle.
After obtaining the salvage title for your vehicle, you can proceed with the necessary repairs.
You can either perform the repairs yourself if you have the necessary skills and knowledge or hire a professional mechanic to handle the repairs.
Maintaining thorough documentation of the repairs conducted on your vehicle is crucial. This includes retaining records and receipts for all major parts purchased and used throughout rebuilding.
These records are evidence of the repairs and will be presented during inspections and when applying for the rebuilt title.
Also, ensure that all repairs are done to a high-quality standard and prioritize safety. This includes using appropriate replacement parts and following recommended repair procedures to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy and complies with safety standards.
3. Schedule a Vehicle Inspection.
To get a rebuilt title in Oregon, the salvaged car must undergo a mandatory vehicle inspection.
To meet the state's safety standards, vehicle owners must arrange for their cars to undergo a meticulous vehicle identification number inspection.
After successfully passing the salvage car inspection, the vehicle becomes eligible for reclassification as "reconstructed," granting motorists the authority to resume operating the vehicle on public roads. It is important to note that inspection fees may be applicable during this process.
4. Apply For a Reconstructed (Rebuilt) Title in Oregon.
If you have successfully fulfilled the above criteria, make your way to a local OR DMV office, ensuring that you have the following items in your possession:
- A completed Application for Title and Registration Form.
- The salvaged title for the vehicle.
- An odometer disclosure is essential if your vehicle is less than 20 years old. You can use the back of your car title or obtain a Secure Odometer Disclosure from the DMV office.
- Original release and bills of sale for both the significant parts utilized in the vehicle's reconstruction and from any previous car owners.
- Payment for the required fees, including:
-
- A $7 fee for the VIN inspection.
- Registration fee on your specific to your vehicle (starting fee is from $101).
Rebuilt Title vs. Salvage Title
A rebuilt title in Oregon is issued to vehicles previously deemed salvage or total loss by an insurance company.
Still, it has since been rebuilt to meet the state's legal and safety standards. It signifies that the vehicle has undergone necessary repairs and inspections to be deemed roadworthy again.
In contrast, a salvage title is issued when a vehicle has sustained significant damage and its repair cost exceeds a certain percentage of its market value.
Comprehensive or Collision Coverage for a Rebuilt Title in Oregon
Securing comprehensive or collision coverage for a vehicle with a rebuilt title in Oregon can be challenging.
Many insurance companies hesitate to offer such coverage due to difficulty in accurately assessing the vehicle's value.
It is advisable to contact multiple insurance providers, including your current insurer, to explore any available options.
The Cost of a Rebuilt Title and Salvage Title in Oregon
As a customary practice, applicants must remit a fee of $27 for acquiring a salvage car title in Oregon.
Vehicle owners must also pay an additional fee of $7 for a mandatory VIN inspection, which must be conducted during the application process for a rebuilt title.
However, the Oregon rebuilt title fee varies depending on the vehicle model. The starting fee for a rebuilt title is $101.
Applying for a Rebuilt Title If the Vehicle Was Declared a Total Loss Due to Flood Damage
You can apply for a rebuilt title in Oregon even if your vehicle was declared a total loss due to flood damage.
However, it's crucial to ensure that the necessary repairs have been completed to restore the vehicle to a safe and roadworthy condition.
The vehicle will still need to go through the standard process of obtaining a salvage title and meeting all the requirements for a rebuilt title.
Financing a Vehicle With a Rebuilt Title in Oregon
Financing options for vehicles with rebuilt titles can be more limited than those with clean titles.
Some lenders may have restrictions or requirements for financing rebuilt title vehicles.
It's advisable to contact lenders directly to inquire about their policies regarding financing rebuilt title vehicles in Oregon.
Best Car Deals by Category
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a car with a salvage title in Oregon?
Driving a car with a salvage title on public roads in Oregon is illegal. You must complete the rebuilt titling process to make the vehicle legal for driving.
Can I obtain a rebuilt title for an out-of-state vehicle in Oregon?
Yes, you can get a rebuilt title for an out-of-state vehicle in Oregon. The process and requirements are generally the same as for in-state vehicles.
Can I sell a vehicle with a rebuilt title in Oregon?
Yes, you can sell a vehicle with a rebuilt title in Oregon. However, it's important to note that vehicles with rebuilt titles typically have lower market value than those with clean titles. Potential buyers may be cautious due to the vehicle's history, so providing accurate information about the vehicle's repairs and restoration is essential.
Can I change a salvage title to a rebuilt title without repairing the vehicle?
No, to convert a salvage title to a rebuilt title in Oregon, you must complete the necessary repairs on the vehicle. The rebuilt title signifies that the vehicle has been restored to a safe and roadworthy condition after being declared a total loss by an insurance company.
How can I check a vehicle’s history with a rebuilt title in Oregon?
To check the history of a vehicle with a rebuilt title in Oregon, you can use online vehicle history report services that provide information on the vehicle's past accidents, repairs, and title status.
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