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How to Compare Costs of Wrecked vs. Lightly Damaged Cars?

How to Compare Costs of Wrecked vs. Lightly Damaged Cars?

Short answer

Compare not by auction price, but by "auction + repair + risk reserve" total. Severely damaged lots start cheap, but repairs are expensive and hard to predict. Lightly damaged lots start higher, but the final cost is more predictable. Often lightly damaged lots turn out cheaper in the end.

Comparison

MeyarLight damageSevere damage
Bid priceHighLow
Repair costLow, estimate is clearHigh, hidden damage possible
Risk reserveSmallLarge
Repair timeShortLong, may need to wait for parts
Resale valueBetterLow

Simple rule

Compare two lots like this: Total cost = auction price + auction fees + delivery + customs + repair + risk reserve. For severely damaged lots, take the risk reserve as at least 30–50% of repair costs. After that, put the two numbers and the price of a clean version in Baku side by side.

When can severe damage be worth it?

On the contrary, lots with "All Over", "Rollover", "Flood" and "Burn" codes are usually not worth it. Damage code meanings: Copart and IAAI terms.

Our advice

If buying a car from abroad for the first time, start with light damage and "Run and Drive" lots. Savings are a bit less, but surprises are fewer too. For the effect of document type: clean and salvage title.

Our approach

We do not purchase any lot without your approval. For each lot, we clearly show photos, damage notes and VIN history; we advise against purchasing cars we consider risky. Cars currently for sale from the live auction page view or fill out the order form — 050 202 30 80.

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