Buying a car without a title: All you need to know

As humans, each of us have a unique identity. Some are identified by their personality while others are remembered for their striking facial features. Whatever the case may be, each aspect contributes in adding depth to our personality.

Even inanimate objects have a unique identity. Think about a car with the same logic. What makes your car different from the countless cars that exist in the world? Is it the striking red color, the alloy wheels or the number plate that distinguishes it from others? Even if a single feature is missing, the car becomes devoid of a “unique identity”

Now think of buying a car without a title. This may sound odd at first, but there is a high chance that you may get one.

The Power of Why?

Most people would probably be wondering why there is a need to buy a car with no title. However, if you are a car fanatic, you’d know how difficult it is to lose a car that you fell in love with at first sight. You’d be stuck contemplating a decision that may just affect your whole life.

There is certainly no doubt that buying a car without a title is a risky decision. A car with no title, not only lacks a proper identity, but also hints at a problem that may be much bigger in itself. However big the problem may be, sometimes buying the car is necessary. In case you are to find yourself embroiled in such a situation, here is how you can master the art of buying a car without a title.

STEP 1: Research is key

We have already established that buying a car without a title is a risk decision. One way to reduce the hazards associated with this decision is to conduct a thorough and conducive research. There can be numerous valid reasons for buying a car without a title. For instance, it is possible that the original documents have been misplaced or stolen. Moreover, several car dealers are unable to register vintage cars and hence their title cannot be obtained. If these reasons are true, it is safe to go ahead and buy the car. However, there are also some other reasons which may not be as transparent. One such reason is that the vehicle is stolen. If that is the case, then the buyer may have to face the consequences.

Thus, conducting exhaustive research is important before buying a car without a title. With the advancement of technology, detailed reports can be accessed with a click. Online resources such as Auto Check and Carfax can be used to retrieve information about the legal status of the car. In addition, these sites will also provide information about insurance claims and history of accidents. This information is extremely valuable as it offers rich insight that can be used to verify the details given by the seller. If there is a discrepancy between the two sources of information, trust your gut and walk away.

STEP 2:  Implement a bill of sale

A bill of sale is an important document that is commonly used in businesses all across the world. If you want to create a bill of sale, here are a few steps you can follow:

• Details Matter: It is important to write down the details of the sale. These details include the car’s VIN number, sale price and mileage. You can mention any other items that are included or excluded from the sale.

Also, while making the bill of sale, write out the complete details of the seller and buyer, including their names, phone numbers and residential addresses.

• Mode of Payment: Remember that the mode of payment should be one that can be proven at a later date and time. In such a case, the payment mode can be a cheque or a bank draft.

STEP 3: A replacement title

If the seller has registered previously with a DMV in the name, then he can undertake certain steps to request an alternate title for the car that was lost before. The requirement consists of the seller filling out a form that would require a few details such as name, number, address, VIN, mileage and identification proof. Once these formalities are fulfilled, a duplicate title will be sent to the seller in a few days. However, if the information is incorrect, then a title would not be sent.

STEP 4: Track it till you make it

To get a car without a title, you may have to get involved in a tedious investigation process. Firstly, try to identify where the car was last registered. If it was registered out of state, then the process becomes complicated. You can contact the DMV to provide you information regarding the previous owner. If the contact with DMV is successful, ask for a duplicate title.

STEP 5:  A surety bond

In simple terms, a surety bond is meant to provide financial security. It’s a form of guarantee that ensures the car is yours, and if a financial fee is processed, it is covered by the bond provider.

Even in such a case, it is important to check if there is a lien on the car. If a lien is found, don’t pursue the purchase until the seller lifts the lien. Next, you can track a bond company and oblige to their requirements to get a ‘lost title bond’. These requirements mostly consist of a valuation which is later used to calculate the total bond required for the lost title bond. If all this goes well, the next step is to buy the ‘lost title bond’. The whole amount doesn’t need to be paid. You would only be required to pay a portion of the amount. Once you get the bonded title, you can register your vehicle.