How to Check a Motor Vehicle Title
Buying a used car can save you thousands of dollars off it's original cost. Used cars also come with a history, which can include accident damage, manufacturer recalls, flood damage and inaccurate mileage readings. Some of these hidden facts can prevent you from getting the title to the car, even if you are the rightful owner holding the receipt. To protect yourself from this kind of situation, check you potential motor vehicle's title record. Knowing your car's history can save you even more money than you did by buying it used.
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Instructions
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Get the Vehicle Information Number (VIN) from the lower inside left corner of the dashboard. You can usually read the VIN easily by looking through the dashboard. Write the number down, along with the make, model, year and options of the car, such as an alarm or passenger rear airbags. If the car has a license plate, write that down as well.
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Go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles Office. Each state has different procedures and regulations but in general you will have to complete and submit a form, requesting the vehicle's title history. A nominal fee will be charged for the report and in most cases, you will have to wait a week or two until it is mailed to you.
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Get at least one more vehicle history title report from an approved National Motor Vehicle Title Information Systems provider (see Resources). If possible, also get a history report from either Carfax or AutoCheck (see Resources). Each will charge for a copy of the title history but single reports don't always contain all the details and it's in your best interest to do more research.
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Compare the information from the vehicle title reports. If there are reports of damage or recalls or if the odometer reading does not coincide with the present reading, reconsider your purchase.
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Tips & Warnings
Certain state DMV offices may allow you to order a vehicle title history online. Check with your local office (see Resources).
Always test drive a car to get a feel for how it moves and whether it makes questionable noises.
References
Resources
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