What does a salvage vehicle report mean in the USA

When a total loss is claimed on a vehicle it is recorded as salvage on the history of that vehicle, the loss can be as a result of damage by accident or flood, even in some state it can be because it is a recovered stolen vehicle. So in the USA it is not a good thing but if it is exported to other countries, depending on the law and the insurance companies this may vary, for example in Nigeria I don’t think the motor vehicle department check history report so they will register your car anyway same goes with the insurance company.

The reason you should beware is if the salvage was as a result of an accident, then you want to know what type of accident, was there any structural damage? , that can be costly to fix afterward, was it because of a flood which will render the car useless after a few year. So before you buy a car make sure you check the history report, this is not 100% guaranteed to be 100% accurate but at least you will know the most important information about the vehicle.

Sometimes when a car experience a total loss the car can sometimes be sold back to the owner at a lower price (it saves the insurance company a lot of money), this type of car will also be issued a salvage title.
In the USA, Salvaged cars typically go through an inspection by the state’s motor vehicle department before being issued a salvage title, but inspection procedures also vary by state and some may be a simple VIN code and emissions system check. Others may be a more thorough safety inspection, since this does not exist in Nigeria I will suggest for the sake of your safety and that of your family, have a qualified and experienced mechanic that you trust check out the car for you before you buy it.

Don't forget I can also help check out VIN history for free.