A standard car title consists of several key components that provide comprehensive information about the vehicle and its ownership status. These components include:

Title brands are labels applied to a vehicle's title to indicate its status, such as salvaged, rebuilt, flooded, or lemon law buyback. These title brands can have a significant impact on the vehicle's value and safety. A title report will identify any title brands associated with the vehicle, giving you insight into potential issues that may affect its performance or resale value.

Ten of the most important title brands to watch out for include:

1. Clean Title: A clean title is the most desirable title brand for any used vehicle. It indicates that the car has not been involved in any major accidents or sustained significant damage. Additionally, there are no outstanding liens or financial encumbrances on the vehicle. In other words, a clean title means that the car has a clear history and is free from any major issues.
2. Salvage Title: A salvage title is issued when a vehicle has undergone significant damage, often due to a severe accident, fire, flood, or other catastrophic events. When the cost of repairing the vehicle exceeds a certain percentage of its value (as determined by state laws), the insurance company deems it a total loss and issues a salvage title. If you're considering buying a car with this type of title from a junk or salvage yard, proceed with caution. While it is possible for these vehicles to be repaired and put back on the road, they often come with unknown issues or hidden damage. Moreover, insuring a car with a salvage title can be more challenging and expensive.
3. Rebuilt Title: Rebuilt titles are given to a vehicle that was previously classified as salvage but has since been repaired and restored to a roadworthy condition. Rebuilt vehicle titles are issued after the necessary repairs and safety inspections have been completed to ensure that the car meets the state's road safety standards. Buying a car with a rebuilt title can be a viable option, especially if the repairs were done correctly. However, it is crucial to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic to verify its condition and ensure it meets safety standards.
4. Flood Damage Title: A flood damage title is assigned to vehicles that have been damaged by flooding. These cars are usually considered salvage, as water damage can cause extensive and often irreparable harm to a vehicle's electrical and mechanical systems. Flood-damaged vehicles may suffer from hidden issues that can arise later, leading to costly repairs. Before purchasing a car from an area prone to flooding or with a flood-damage title, it's essential to have a professional inspection done to identify any water-related problems.
5. Lemon Law Buyback Title: A lemon law buyback title is applied to vehicles that were bought back by the manufacturer due to persistent defects that couldn't be repaired within a reasonable number of attempts or time frame, as defined by the lemon law. These vehicles are often repurchased from dissatisfied owners and then resold. While lemon law buybacks may have had their issues resolved by the manufacturer, potential buyers should be aware of their history and ensure they come with a comprehensive warranty to protect against recurring problems.
6. Junk Title: A junk title is issued when a vehicle is deemed to be non-repairable or beyond economical repair. Junk title vehicles are usually sold for scrap or dismantled for parts. These cars are not roadworthy and cannot be legally driven on public roads.
7. Theft Recovery Title: A theft recovery title is assigned to previously stolen vehicles that were later recovered by law enforcement. In many cases, these cars may not have sustained significant damage, but their titles may carry the theft recovery designation. When considering a vehicle with a theft recovery title, it's essential to ensure it was thoroughly inspected and cleared by the police to rule out any hidden issues or potential lingering problems from the theft incident.
8. Non-Repairable Title: A non-repairable title, also known as a certificate of destruction or certificate of title destruction, is issued when a vehicle is damaged beyond any possibility of repair or when it doesn't meet the state's safety standards. These vehicles are deemed unsafe for use on public roads and are typically sold for parts or scrap.
9. Odometer Rollback Title: An odometer rollback title is assigned to vehicles with tampered or rolled-back odometer readings. Odometer fraud involves altering the mileage displayed on the vehicle's odometer to make it appear as if the car has been driven fewer miles than it actually has. This deceptive practice is illegal and can artificially inflate the car's value. Buying a car with an odometer rollback title is risky, as it can lead to inaccurate maintenance records and conceal the true wear and tear on the vehicle.
10. Gray Market Title: A gray market title is applied to vehicles that were imported into the United States from other countries, often bypassing the official manufacturer's distribution channels. Gray market vehicles may not meet the safety and emissions standards required for vehicles sold in the United States. Before purchasing a gray market vehicle, it's essential to verify that it complies with all relevant safety and emissions regulations, as well as confirm the availability of spare parts and services.

Identifying these title brands helps you make an informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls.