Copart and IAAI damage types explained, with real frequencies
Updated: 2026-10-16
“Primary damage” on a Copart or IAAI listing is a short label the yard assigns at intake. It is not a full inspection. Here is what the common labels mean and how often they appeared across about 45,600 lots in our archive (March to October 2026, mostly model years 2021+).
How often each damage type appears
Share of lots by primary damage in the AllCarHistory archive:
- Front end: 43%. The most common by far. Check the radiator support, airbags and headlight mounts.
- Rear end: about 13%. Check the trunk floor and rear rails.
- Side: about 9%. Check pillars, door frames and side airbags.
- Minor dents/scratches: about 3%. Often cosmetic, but check why the insurer totaled it.
- All over: about 2.5%. Damage on several sides, usually a serious accident.
- Rollover: about 2%. The roof and pillars carry the damage; repairs are complex.
- Normal wear: about 2%. Often fleet or lease returns rather than accidents.
- Water/flood: about 2%. Hail and mechanical: about 1.5% each. Fire and vandalism: about 1% each.
Run condition and keys
Listings also say whether the car started and drove at intake (for example “Run and Drive”, “Engine Starts” or “Stationary”) and whether keys were present. A car that ran at intake may not run later, and the auctions do not guarantee these notes.
Secondary damage and what labels miss
Many listings add a secondary damage label. Neither label covers hidden damage: frame, suspension or water in the electronics. Always study every photo and, if possible, inspect the car or ask for an independent report.
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Questions and answers
What is the most common damage at Copart and IAAI?
Front-end damage. It was the primary damage on 43% of the 45,600 lots in our archive.
Are flood cars common?
Less than people think: water/flood was the primary damage on about 2% of lots in our sample, against 43% for front end. The share rises after major storms.
Is “Run and Drive” guaranteed?
No. It describes the car at intake. Batteries die and problems appear during storage, so check before paying for shipping.