KBB & NADA, what is meant by a "clean title"?

[AMCRambler]

I'm selling my 2000 Contour SVT and I'm trying to determine if I've set my asking price correctly. I'm a little confused as to what is meant by a clean title history? Does this refer to flood damage/salvage titles? Or does this mean the car has not been in any accidents?

I had one accident with the car while I owned it. I was rear ended on an on-ramp at maybe 20mph tops. Not even enough to deploy the air bags, but the rear bumper cover got a nice 12 inch gash punched through it. No frame or bumper damage, so they just replaced the bumper cover with a new re-painted one. Does this mean it does not have a clean title history?

 

[iamwiz82]

Clean means a non-salvage/rebuilt/whatever your state calls it title.

 

[lurk3r]

Clean title does mean no salvage, but your accident does also lower the value of your car, even the minor hole I have in my bumper from a parking lot hit and run will register as an accident and lower the resale value if I have it repaired by someone. (not reported if I replace it myself)

 

[AMCRambler]

Gotcha. Thanks guys.

 

[railer]

Not to mention NADA is completely worthless as far as pricing vehilces. Dealers don't even ask NADA retail....

 

[angry hampster]

Originally posted by: railer
Not to mention NADA is completely worthless as far as pricing vehilces. Dealers don't even ask NADA retail....

I still see it from time to time. However, most do use Kelly Blue Book.