Fire Damaged Vehicles: How to Check

Fire damage is another damage record you may find in a VIN history report. Although it does not always mean that the vehicle has been on fire, fire damaged vehicles need a particular precaution when buying as they don't always have a rebuilt title.

Causes of Fire Damage in Vehicles

A fire in a car can occur due to different reasons, ranging from a mechanical failure to human error. Below are some common causes of fire damage in vehicles:

Electrical System Failure

The electrical system of a car is essential to its operation. However, if there is a fault in the electrical system, it can cause a short circuit, which can lead to a fire. For example, if there is a faulty alternator, it can overload the battery, causing it to explode and ignite a fire.

Fuel System Failure

The fuel system is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. If there is a leak in the fuel system, it can cause a fire. For instance, if the fuel line has a leak, it can spray fuel onto the engine, causing a fire.

Overheated Engine

An overheated engine can also lead to a fire. This can happen due to a coolant system failure, a broken fan, or a malfunctioning water pump. When the engine overheats, it can ignite the oil and other flammable substances under the hood.

Human Error

Human error is another common cause of fire damage in vehicles. For example, if a driver throws a cigarette butt out of the window, it can ignite dry grass on the side of the road and cause a fire or it can catch fire from a neighbouring house.

Does Fire Damage Total a Vehicle?

Fire damage can cause severe damage to a vehicle, but it does not always total it. Whether or not a vehicle is totaled depends on the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs. The final decision on the title brand is made by the insurance company. If the cost of repairs is higher than the value of the vehicle, the insurance company may declare it a total loss and issue either a salvage or a Junk Title or certiicate of destruction. However, if the damage is not too severe, the vehicle can be repaired without being totaled and get back on the road without obtaining a rebuilt title.

Repairing Fire Damaged Vehicles

Repairing fire damaged vehicles is a complex process that requires expertise and specialized equipment. Below are the steps involved in fixing a fire damaged vehicle:

Assessment of Damage

The first step in repairing a fire damaged vehicle is to assess the extent of the damage. A qualified mechanic will inspect the vehicle and determine which parts are damaged and which can be salvaged.

Disassembly

After the assessment, the car is disassembled to reveal the full extent of the damage. This step is crucial as it helps the mechanic identify any hidden damage.

Cleaning

The next step is to clean the vehicle thoroughly. This involves removing all the debris and ash from the car's interior and exterior.

Repairs

Once the vehicle is clean, repairs can begin. The mechanic will replace or repair the damaged components, such as the wiring, fuel system, and engine.

Painting

After repairs, the vehicle is painted to restore its appearance.

Testing

The final step is to test the vehicle to ensure that it is safe and functioning correctly.

Fire Damage Title

The title with an indication of fire damage is issued by the DMV and is intended to warn potential buyers of the vehicle's history. If a vehicle has been damaged by fire, it may be considered a salvage vehicle, and its title may be branded as such. The specific branding and requirements for obtaining a title for a fire-damaged vehicle vary by state. For example, in California, Texas, New York, Florida and Illinois a vehicle that has been damaged by fire and deemed a total loss is considered salvage. The title is branded "Salvage" and cannot be registered or driven until it has been repaired and passed a salvage inspection. In Florida, a vehicle that has been damaged by fire and deemed a total loss is considered a "Certificate of Destruction" vehicle. The title is branded "Certificate of Destruction" and cannot be registered or driven. Specific branding and requirements for fire-damaged vehicle titles can vary by state and may change over time. It's always best to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for the most up-to-date information.