Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

Can I sell my vehicle if it is totaled?

I ran into some strong metal wires that ended up totaling my car, but there was no damage to the wires and no other cars involved. Since the car is totaled and nothing else was damaged, I would like to just sell this car without involving my insurance company. I already have too many claims, and I would rather sell this car for what I can get so that I don't have to file a claim.

Jul 28, 2021 Dallas, TX

Answer
Author profile picture
The Zebra
The nation's leading independent insurance comparison site

The Zebra is an independent insurance advisor and quote comparison site with headquarters in Austin, Texas. Utilizing its real-time quote comparison …

A totaled vehicle is one where the cost of repairs is more than the value of the vehicle itself. If the vehicle is truly totaled, you can do what you'd like with it. There shouldn't be any legal issue with selling the vehicle if choose to do so. However, you will need to obtain a salvage title for the vehicle through your local DMV before you sell it.
Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

Can my parent's drop me from their policy?

Thanks for reaching out to The Zebra! There are a couple of things to think about here.First, your parent's insurance won't be affected until the next renewal. That's usually when your insurance company will pull your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) which will show your ticket.Second, your parents can d…
Aug 13, 2024 Frisco, TX

Does Dairyland do SR-22s fast?

Yes, that’s actually one of the things Dairyland does best. They’re known for helping people who need SR-22 filings or have had a lapse or suspension, and they usually move faster than bigger companies when it comes to getting you legal again.The process is usually pretty quick. In many states, the…
Mar 18, 2026 Amarillo, TX

What is the 80% rule in homeowners insurance?

As you stated, your home is covered up to 150% of the dwelling amount so this is not something you should be concerned about. However, it is a good example of why it is so important to properly insure your home. It also benefits you as a consumer and homeowner to understand the basics of your homeo…
Jan 28, 2026 Austin, TX

If you don't have a receipt for goods, do renters still get paid for property loss?

You can file a renters insurance claim without receipts, but moving forward you should keep an up-to-date inventory of your personal belongings with photos and get an appraisal for big-ticket items.If you reach out to your insurance company, they will let you know what all would be covered under yo…
Aug 4, 2023 Fort Worth, TX