Three Proof Of Ownership Documents Required When Selling A Junk Car
Selling an old or damaged vehicle to a junkyard is one of the best disposal options. Particularly, it adds money to your pockets and helps protect the environment through recycling. However, you must show proof of ownership by presenting a car title to increase your chances of getting a good deal.
Unfortunately, a car title can get lost or damaged, complicating a sale arrangement. In such cases, inquire about other acceptable proof of ownership documents. This post highlights alternative documents that prove legal ownership of a junk car without a title.
1. Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin
Typically, a car manufacturer issues a certificate of origin (CO) for every vehicle sold to a dealer, which allows the latter to transfer ownership to a buyer. Therefore, if you have lost, damaged, or misplaced a car title, contact your dealer and ask them to send a copy of your vehicle's certificate of origin. However, be persistent with a dealership if you need more urgency because delaying a car-for-cash transaction could significantly reduce the initial bid due to market dynamics.
In case of delays, visit a dealership office in person rather than contact relevant offices via telephone or email. If you have moved to another state since you bought a vehicle, find out whether a dealership has offices in your current state to expedite the CO retrieval process. Most importantly, since a CO contains a buyer's name, it is enough to prove ownership to a junk car buyer.
2. DMV Duplicate Title
The most straightforward alternative to a missing title when junking an old car is a duplicate title. Fortunately, most local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices make the process easy since a car owner can apply for a replacement online. Therefore, check your state's DMV website and follow the steps provided. Choose a mail-in option to avoid the hassle of visiting DMV offices in person.
To get started, provide details such as your full name, date of birth, driver's license or learner's permit, and the last four digits of your social security number. Additionally, confirm the local DMV fee to facilitate the replacement process because charges vary from one jurisdiction to another. Overall, a duplicate title proves legal ownership of a junk car and gives you an upper hand in the negotiation process.
3. Lienholder's Title Copy
A financed car is typically registered under a lienholder's name, and they retain the title during the loan repayment period. However, once you have paid off the loan, visit a local DMV office to obtain a new title listing you as the car's sole owner. Therefore, if you lose the original title and want to sell your junk car fast, contact the lienholder for a copy since most keep a record.
Since junk buyers do not accept copies of car titles with a lienholder's name, attach the original release of the lien sent to a DMV office as proof that you've cleared the loan. Nonetheless, obtaining a car title copy from a lienholder can take time; therefore, use the option if you are not in a rush to sell a junk car.
If you have more questions, reach out to a company like Texas Junk Car Buyer.