Ram 1500 truck was declared a write-off, but two brothers saw that as a challenge

When a Ram 1500 is declared a write-off, most people assume it’s destined for the scrapyard.

After all, when repair costs exceed a vehicle’s estimated value, insurance companies cut their losses.

But every so often, a skilled enthusiast sees more than just twisted metal; they see potential.

That’s exactly what happened when YouTube car rebuilders Mike and Ivan, better known as the Niko Brothers, took on the challenge of reviving a battered 2021 Ram 1500 Laramie.

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The Ram 1500 had seen better days

This white Ram 1500, powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 395hp and 410lb-ft of torque – plus 130 lb-ft from its eTorque hybrid assist – had seen better days.

With 95,646 miles on the clock and heavy rear passenger-side damage, it was in no condition to drive, tow, or even roll, and was considered a write-off.

But with no airbags deployed and zero damage to the front or driver’s side, it still had some life left in it, at least in the right people’s hands.

Enter the Niko Brothers, known for turning wrecks into rides on YouTube, like this flooded 2008 Winnebago RV.

They snapped up the truck at an insurance auction for $13,000 – $13,265 with fees – plus $200 for shipping.

Their first task? Unbolt the bed and assess the axle damage.

A new rear axle set them back $1,400, and a fresh set of wheels added $680 to the tab.

Despite it needing some serious metalwork, including fixing the deformed side panel and a bent rear passenger door, the rebuild was methodical.

Using their trusty Maxi dent puller, they reshaped the bed, swapped in the new axle, and gave it fresh wheels.

Things were going smoothly until, ironically, they scratched the truck while reinstalling the bumper.

Still, all in, the brothers spent around $18,000 on the rebuild.

For a truck with a 12,750-pound towing capacity and luxury Laramie trim, that’s a bargain.

And now, aside from that minor cosmetic mishap, you’d never guess it was once deemed a total loss.

Sometimes, even the most horrifically written-off vehicles can be fixed, raising some questions about how cars are categorized.

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