Is It Cheaper to Buy a Salvage Ford Bronco and Restore it? Find Out Here!

When it comes to buying a Ford Bronco, there are a variety of options available. One of the more budget-friendly options is purchasing a salvage Ford Bronco and restoring it. Many buyers may wonder whether this route is actually cheaper than buying a pre-owned or new Bronco outright.

The answer to this question is not straightforward and depends on various factors, such as the extent of the damage, availability of parts, cost of labor and the level of restoration desired. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of buying a salvage Ford Bronco and restoring it, and provide some insights into what you can expect in terms of cost and effort if you decide to go down this path. 

What is a Salvage Ford Bronco? 

A salvage Ford Bronco is a Ford Bronco that has been declared a total loss by an insurance company due to damage from an accident, natural disaster or other cause. Salvage Ford Broncos can be purchased at auction or from private sellers, often at a lower cost than pre-owned or new Ford Broncos, because they require repairs or restoration work to be roadworthy again. 

Salvage Ford Broncos can vary widely in terms of the extent and nature of the damage they have sustained. Some may have only cosmetic damage, while others may have more serious structural or mechanical issues. Therefore, it's important to carefully inspect a salvaged Ford Bronco before purchasing it to assess the extent of the damage and determine the cost and feasibility of repairing or restoring it. 

Is it Cheaper to Buy a Salvage Ford Bronco and Restore It? 

The cost of buying a salvage Ford Bronco and restoring it will depend on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the availability of replacement parts, the cost of labor and the level of restoration desired. 

In some cases, it may be cheaper to buy a salvage Ford Bronco and restore it, especially if the damage is relatively minor and you have the skills and tools to perform the restoration work yourself. However, if the damage is extensive or requires specialized expertise, the cost of restoration may exceed the cost of buying a pre-owned or new Ford Bronco. 

Before deciding whether to restore a salvage Ford Bronco, you should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle and obtain an estimate for the cost of repairs and restoration work. You should also research the availability and cost of replacement parts, as well as the cost of any specialized tools or equipment needed for the restoration process. 

Ultimately, the decision to buy a salvage Ford Bronco and restore it will depend on your budget, skills and the level of risk you are willing to take on. If you are unsure whether this is the right option for you, it may be helpful to consult with a professional mechanic or restoration expert to get their opinion and advice. 

Where Can You Buy a Salvage Ford Bronco? 

Salvage Ford Broncos can be purchased from various sources, including salvage yards, online auctions and private sellers. 

Salvage yards are a good place to start looking for a salvage Ford Bronco, as they often have a wide selection of salvage vehicles, including Ford Broncos, available for purchase. You can find a list of salvage yards in your area by doing a quick online search or checking with your local Department of Motor Vehicles or licensing agency. 

Online auctions, such as A Better Bid, Copart and Insurance Auto Auctions, are another option for purchasing a salvage Ford Bronco. These auctions allow buyers to bid on salvage vehicles from the comfort of their homes, and often have a large selection of vehicles available from all over the country. 

Finally, private sellers may also have salvage Ford Broncos available for purchase. You can find private sellers through online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or Autotrader, or by attending local car shows and events. 

Regardless of where you decide to purchase a salvage Ford Bronco, it's important to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and understand the extent of the damage before making an offer. It's also a good idea to consult with a mechanic or restoration expert to assess the feasibility and cost of restoring the vehicle to roadworthy condition. 

How Much is a Restored Ford Bronco Worth? 

The value of a restored Ford Bronco can vary widely depending on several factors, including the year, model, condition before restoration, the level of restoration performed and the current market demand for the vehicle. 

Generally, a fully restored Ford Bronco can command a high price, especially if it has been restored to original specifications or modified with high-quality aftermarket parts. According to Hagerty, a classic car valuation company, as of 2021, a restored 1966-1977 Ford Bronco can range from $30,000 to $160,000 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above.

It's worth noting that the value of a restored Ford Bronco can fluctuate over time based on market demand and other factors, so it's always a good idea to consult with a professional appraiser or do research on comparable sales to get an accurate estimate of the vehicle's value. 

Whether it is cheaper to buy a salvage Ford Bronco and restore it will depend on various factors, such as the condition of the vehicle, the extent of the damage, availability of parts and the cost of labor. If you have the skills and tools necessary to perform the restoration work yourself, it may be a cost-effective option. However, if the damage is extensive or requires specialized expertise, it may end up costing more than buying a pre-owned or new Ford Bronco. 

Ultimately, the decision to buy a salvage Ford Bronco and restore it should be based on your budget, level of expertise and risk tolerance. With careful research and planning, you can make an informed decision and bring your dream Ford Bronco back to life.