Can't sell it as new so the price goes way down making the insurance company total it.
In some circumstances, if they repaired it, 'diminished value' could come into play and the dealership would be made 'whole' and the vehicle would be able to retain warranty. A better deal all the way around. But this way, there is no factory warranty which, along with the branded title, would have a much more significant impact on current and future value than a simple repair.
We don't have the full story, so there is plenty of room for conjecture. My money is on a theft recovery. I have this one on my 'Copart watch list'. I bet it will bring $75k when it comes up. Maybe more.
