There are plenty of stigmas attached to buying vehicles with a salvage title. While purchasing one of these cars with no understanding of its prior history can be a risk, buying one with the intention of overseeing the auto body repairs is often an excellent way to get a bargain. However, getting one back on the road and through your state's inspection can be challenging.

If you're considering taking this on, you may want to avoid doing any substantial repairs to the vehicle's body yourself. Working with a repair shop specializing in salvage cars is typically the better option, even if it will cost you more money. Before wrenching on that wrecked car in your driveway, consider these three reasons to use a qualified body shop instead.

1. Better Documentation

Although requirements vary between states, most jurisdictions require salvage title owners to provide proof of prior repairs. The state will have (or request) documentation indicating why the insurance company originally totaled the vehicle. The state inspectors will then use this information to confirm that you've successfully repaired or replaced any damaged components on this assessment.

By working with a body repair shop, you'll have the documentation you need to demonstrate that you've successfully carried out these repairs. You'll also have better records for the parts used. Some states require that you provide the VIN for any donor vehicles providing used parts, and professional repair shops will have this information on hand.

2. Accurate Frame Repair

Frame damage is a common justification for totaling a vehicle after an accident. Damage to the frame, especially on unibody vehicles, can be hard to find and correct. While professional shops have the expertise and knowledge to diagnose and repair this damage, it's nearly impossible to deal with it correctly using simple tools in a driveway.

A body repair shop will have frame measuring equipment to check your car's geometry against precise factory specifications. The technicians in the shop can then use this information to bring the frame back into proper alignment. This repair ensures that you'll pass your salvage inspection and keeps your car safe to drive on the road.

3. More Experience

Salvage inspections typically involve many steps, and it's hard to know what to expect if you haven't gone through one before. Failing to get your car re-titled due to a minor problem can be frustrating, time-consuming, and expensive. An experienced shop will know the ins and outs of this process in your state, allowing them to correct any defects before sending your car out for inspection.

While getting your car back on the road will cost you a little more, that extra money will guarantee that your salvaged car is a genuine bargain instead of a potential long-term money pit.