If you are a licensed automotive facility and have repaired a vehicle, chances are that the state in which you are operating has a process for obtaining a mechanic’s lien to ensure you recover your costs. However, if you are not licensed in that state, you cannot file for a mechanic’s lien. The mechanic’s lien process is complex and should only be pursued as a last resort; it is not an easy way to title the vehicle. If you are an authorized entity, check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to find out what steps must be taken to correctly file for a mechanic’s lien.
In the simplest terms, a mechanic’s lien is a process that licensed automotive facilities can use to recover the costs of an unpaid bill. Typically this happens if a vehicle has been towed, stored, or otherwise left unattended by the registered owner with an unpaid service bill for a specific amount of time.
In order to be eligible for a mechanic’s lien in Kentucky, a vehicle or vessel must be in the possession of a person engaged in the business of selling, repairing, or furnishing parts for vehicles and the owner of that vehicle owes that person charges for repairs, labor, or supplies for more than 30 days. Once the vehicle or vessel has met this criterion, it may be sold at auction in order to pay for the accrued charges.
Before the sale can proceed, you must make all reasonable attempts to contact the registered owner and any security interests such as lienholders. This information must come from a title search to ensure the proper parties are contacted according to the DMV’s records. This contact must be made through certified mail to notify the owner and lienholder of the proposed sale. This initial notice of sale must be sent at least ten days prior to the proposed sale date. Be sure to keep all certified mail receipts as they will be needed when applying for a title.
In addition to the notice, you must also advertise the sale in the local newspaper once a week for three consecutive weeks. The advertisement must include the year, make, model, VIN, name of the owner(s), name of the lienholder(s), and the name, address, and phone number of your automotive shop.
Once all notification requirements have been completed, you can proceed with the sale. The sale may be made to an outside buyer, or your shop may also bid on the vehicle. In compliance with Kentucky statutes above (KRS.376.270, KRS 376.280, and KRS 424.130), the purchaser of a vehicle sold under a mechanic’s lien must provide the following documents when applying for a vehicle title:
The Kentucky mechanic’s lien process is an important part of the automotive industry. Commonly, however, mechanic’s liens are filed on a car before the work is finished or in bad faith. To prevent fraudulent applications, the DMV frequently checks the authenticity of mechanic’s liens. If you have done everything right but your application was not accepted by the DMV, do not panic. The steps to filing a mechanic’s lien are complex and often error-prone, so it is unavoidable that some mistakes will be made along the way. To ensure that your application was not rejected in error, resubmit it with any changes requested by the DMV. If your lien application was rejected by the DMV for erroneous reasons and you feel it was appropriate, there are many steps you can take to ensure that your mechanic’s lien is recognized as valid.
For more information on the mechanic’s lien process in Kentucky, click here for a PDF link to these statues. Want help getting started on your mechanic’s lien or storage lien? CarTitles.com is an expert at handling challenging title situations. Let us help you get started with your mechanic’s lien process.
The Vermont DMV requires a VIN verification for most vehicles that apply for a title using the Vermont title loophole. The temporary suspension of the VIN verification requirement during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic has recently been removed, and now more and more vehicle titling applicants are being held to this requirement. If you are looking to title a car using the Vermont title loophole, it can really save you time when you understand what is required for a successful VIN verification.
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the specific 17-character code that identifies a car. Every car has its own VIN; no two cars are exactly alike. The VIN is assigned to the vehicle when it’s manufactured, and it’s typically stamped on a metal tag and is often located on the driver’s side of the dash, the door jamb, or under the hood. However, some vehicles manufactured before 1981 have a shorter 11-character VIN. This change in regulation grandfathered in certain vehicles and allows for those vehicles to still be titled.
VIN verification is a very important process that verifies that the VIN listed on a vehicle title is the same VIN listed on the physical vehicle. The Vermont VIN verification process is completed using the form Verification of VIN/HIN (VT-010). Many states have adopted a VIN verification policy when titling vehicles and this process is taken very seriously. The reason Vermont requires a VIN verification for the Vermont title loophole is that the vehicle is not required to physically be in Vermont. This means if the VIN wasn’t verified, the applicant can put any VIN on the official application and get a title for any vehicle. The reason for this policy is to protect applicants and the DMV from fraudulent titles.
No, a VIN check and VIN verification are two separate activities. A VIN verification is an official process that involves a government official or representative inspecting the VIN of your vehicle for accuracy. If your application requires a VIN verification, this is not something that can be done online. It must be done in person with an authorized state agent.
A VIN check is an informal process that lets you check your vehicle identification number (VIN) against the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) database. You can use a VIN check to find out whether your vehicle has had any title brands on it, such as salvage or junk. A VIN verification is a more involved and formal process in which you contact an agent from the state motor vehicle department.
The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) is a database that contains information about salvage, junk, and other damage-titled vehicles. Vehicles in this database are not eligible for a title because they have received a title brand such as salvage or junk which deems them inoperable. The database is designed to protect consumers by allowing them to check the history of the vehicle they are intending to purchase or have already purchased.
The Vermont VIN verification for out-of-state residents using the Vermont title loophole has always been a requirement. As you are completing your application for the Vermont title loophole in 2022, we recommend including a VIN verification just in case. If you are submitting an application for a Vermont motorcycle title, you must complete a VIN verification. The Vermont VIN verification helps to make sure that the VIN on your title matches the VIN on your vehicle. Performing this step can save you significant time and help you get your Vermont title faster.
If you recently bought a car from a dealership that is no longer in business, you might have an issue getting the title transferred to your name. Unfortunately, when a dealership is getting ready to go out of business or having financial troubles, they’ll sell vehicles that they don’t have the title for or can’t obtain the title for without paying off a lien first. This way, they avoid extra fees for registration and/or liens since they’re going out of business anyway. So where does that leave the new owner? The dealership is hoping that this will now be their problem, but there are still ways to get your car title from a closed dealership.
States like New Jersey have a clear process for acquiring a car title, should the dealership go out of business before you get the title. If you bought a car without a title from a dealership in New Jersey that went out of business prior to issuing your car title, you can apply to acquire a title from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC). This is a 14 step process that allows for emergency application for vehicle title in the event that your dealership has gone out of business prior to issuing your: title, plates, and/or registration. Each state handles this process differently, be sure to check your state’s requirements before proceeding with any official application.
Other states, like Indiana, have a different process requiring you to contact the dealership directly. If your state requires you to contact the dealership directly, the first step is to look up the business in your state’s Secretary of State database and search for the principal name, registered agent, and addresses. Next, write your letter clearly stating what you need from the dealership and send it by certified mail to the principal, registered agent, and any additional officers listed. Before sending any letters, it’s important to review your state’s requirements to ensure all of the criteria are met and that the correct parties will receive your letter. Sending your letter to multiple contacts within the company increases the likelihood that you will receive a response and provides proof that you attempted to make contact.
Car buying might be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. But if you’re scammed, it can quickly become unpleasant. The best way to prevent yourself from buying a car with no title is to ask for the dealership to show you the physical title. While they may not be able to hand over the title at that time, they can show you that they physically have it. If they’re a reputable dealership, they’ll show you the title. Even if you’ve already bought a car without a title, there are still ways to get the title you deserve.
If you’re looking to buy a pre-owned vehicle and want to get it at a lower price than buying from a dealer, you may want to consider purchasing from an auto auction. However, there are a few things you’ll need to consider before you start your search.
When you’re buying a vehicle at an auto auction, make sure that the auction has the necessary licenses to conduct business in your state. This information should be available on their website or when you call to inquire about the auction. Some states require that all businesses collect sales tax for items sold at an auction, so be sure to ask if this is required before bidding. Be sure that they have a license to sell cars and not just general parts or merchandise.
Before you bid, be sure the price of the vehicle reflects its value. If the price seems too high, the auction may be trying to overvalue the vehicle. If the price seems too low, the auction may be attempting to hide problems or damages. Vehicles sold at auction can be in great condition, but it’s more likely that they’re not.
Don’t just read the description of the vehicle, make sure that it matches the actual car being sold. If there are any problems with the body or a history of mechanical issues, they will be noted in this section of the auction. Compare the mileage, colors, and other specifications listed in the auction with those on the vehicle itself. If you have any questions about the vehicle’s history or condition, ask the seller in advance so that you don’t uncover issues after you’ve purchased it.
A VIN, or vehicle identification number, is a 17-character code that identifies a vehicle and includes information about the manufacturer, model, and serial number of the car. Some older vehicles may have fewer than 17 characters but still be considered valid. A VIN reveals whether a vehicle has ever been rebuilt or salvaged. You can’t tell if a VIN is salvaged by just looking at it, so you’ll need to run a VIN check through the National Motor Vehicle Title Information system (NMVTIS). If your VIN is listed in NMVTIS, you won’t be able to get a title, even if the seller signs one over. Additionally, make sure that the decoding process reveals information that matches the vehicle you’re buying. If it doesn’t match the vehicle, it could indicate red flags of a scam.
Some auctions feature military vehicles up for auction. It’s important to note that some states do not allow these vehicles on the road and that government-owned vehicles may have different paperwork details than civilian vehicles. Check to see what type of title transfer you will receive, whether the Standard Form SF97 or Transferrable Title is typically the title form provided. The title will provide info about your rights as a new owner, including whether you can keep it on the road in your state. In some states, such as Florida, forms other than the Standard Form SF97 cannot be transferred and must be returned to the original owner. If your state doesn’t allow these types of military vehicles to be on the road, you will not be able to get a title.
When you’re buying a car, don’t underestimate the importance of doing your research about the type of vehicle you want and anything you need to know about your local auctions. Auto auctions can be great places to find deals on cars and trucks. But before you head out to an auction, make sure that you know what you’re bidding on and have enough money set aside for repairs. Also, test drive any vehicle before buying it—you want to make sure that it runs well. With careful preparation and some insider tips, you can buy your next car at a great price at an auto auction.
Was your car title lost or stolen? If so, you may need to obtain a duplicate title to prove ownership of your vehicle. A duplicate title is a document that’s needed when the original title is lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated. It’s imperative that your vehicle is titled in your name because if your name isn’t on the vehicle title, you don’t own it.
The first step to applying for a duplicate title is determining who was that last titled owner. If it’s your name, you can apply for a duplicate title. If your name was not on the original vehicle title, you will not be able to obtain a duplicate title.
Each of the 50 states will have its own set of fees for duplicate title processes. If you are applying by mail, it’s important to check your state fees prior to submitting your paperwork. Most state DMVs accept checks and money orders, but do not mail cash. Many states offer this process for a very small fee, for example, in Minnesota the duplicate title fee is $7.25, while in Texas the duplicate title fee is a mere $2.00.
Once you’ve located your DMV and have your funds, you can prepare your application for duplicate or replacement title. Many states, such as Colorado, require that your duplicate or replacement title application be notarized prior to submission, be sure to check with your state regulations prior to submitting your application.
If you’ve recently moved to a new state and need to get a duplicate title, you will need to apply for a duplicate title in the state where the vehicle was last titled. For example, if your vehicle was last titled in Florida but you now live in Georgia, you cannot get a duplicate title from the Georgia DMV. Similarly, if your vehicle title shows a lien, you will first need to get your lien released before you are able to apply for a title.
If you’re the legal owner of a vehicle and simply need to get your lost title replaced, the duplicate title process is likely for you. Be sure to check your state’s fees and document requirements prior to submitting your application to get a title. Click here for more information on this title process and how CarTitles.com can professionally prepare your title documents.
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