A vehicle might be declared salvage when an owner or insurer determines that it will cost more to fix it after a collision than the vehicle is worth. A salvage title will be issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, after which the vehicle can't be registered.

If you repair a salvage vehicle and want to put it back on the road, the state will first conduct a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection to make sure none of the component parts (or the car itself) were stolen.

Repairing and retitling a salvage vehicle can be difficult, with a lot of paperwork involved, so be sure to keep all documents showing where you bought the parts you used to resuscitate the vehicle. Also take "before" photos as soon as you come into possession of the vehicle; you'll need them later when you have the repaired car inspected.

How to Bring a Vehicle Out of Salvage

After a salvage title is issued, four photographs of the salvaged vehicle should be taken. To be acceptable, they must include:

• Two photos of the entire front and left side of the vehicle (one before and one after repairs).

• Two photos of the entire rear and right side of the vehicle (one before and one after repairs).

If repairs were begun before any pictures could be taken, a damage report from your insurance company may be substituted for the two "before" photos.

You will also need a bill of sale for every major component part used in the reconstruction, rebuilding, or repair of the salvaged vehicle. The bill of sale should include the name and address of the buyer, the name and address of the seller, and the date and purchase price of each part. Include a description and the part number on the bill of sale if new parts were used.

In the case of used parts, you must provide:

• A description of the part.

• The vehicle identification number (VIN) of the motor vehicle that contained the part or a statement from you indicating why it is not available; the make; and the model and year.

• The date the part was removed or dismantled (if available).

• The name and address of the person or business that dismantled or removed the part.

To apply for an appointment for the VIN inspection, you should complete a Salvage Inspection Application. Return three copies as indicated with a check or money order payable to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) for $200 (cars and trucks) or $100 (motorcycles).

Phone one of the salvage inspection sites indicated on your application to arrange for an appointment, and then fax your New Jersey Salvage Title for your vehicle and your salvage appointment application to that location.

Note that failure to keep your scheduled appointment, or failure to arrive on time, will result in the forfeiture of your inspection fee. To avoid this, you should request a new appointment at least five working days before your original appointment date if you need to reschedule.

When you go to the inspection, you must bring:

• The salvage title issued to you.

• Your copy of the application.

• The bill of sale for each major component part you have replaced.

• The required photographs and work order.

For further details about the salvage inspection and how to apply, download the MVC's Salvage Vehicle Information brochure.

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