Look, here’s why it’s very important for you to pay attention to how you’re getting a car title. If somebody is doing it for you, look into who you’re doing business with, but also if you’re buying a vehicle, make sure you’re checking the history not just on Carfax or VIN audit or any of these other sites that may not have complete information.
This is a perfect example of another big-time auto title scam. This is one out of Pennsylvania. We’ve seen dozens of these over the last 10-15 years and this is another big one. This is a business operation where there were 13 companies charged in a title washing ring. Well, what does title washing mean? Well, title washing is when you have a title that has a problem, there’s a lien on it, it’s salvage, it’s a parts-only, it’s some other type of problem title, or one that’s missing documents. And you file false paperwork in order to fix the problem.
Look, there are ways that are legitimate to fix title problems but a lot of times they take a long time, they might be expensive, and people don’t want to jump through all the hoops so they try to find a shortcut and you run into problems with title washing. Sometimes people do it accidentally, they don’t even know they’re doing something wrong and they find out accidentally.
What happened in this case? Let’s take a look. Well, 13 Pennsylvania businesses and 19 people are facing charges for title washing. They purchased totaled vehicles, falsified inspection information, and submitted fraudulent title applications to bypass rigid requirements. And this is what people do. Getting a title is taken very seriously by the DMV whether it’s a salvage vehicle or a normal vehicle, a clean title, or a lien title, getting a title is serious. It’s a legal government document. It certifies the ownership it certifies the status of the vehicle. So when you want to get a title, you have to make sure your paperwork is in order and if it’s not they’re going to run you through the wringer.
So what these companies were doing is they were falsifying title applications to try to make the process easier. Well, come to find out, it’s not that simple because they audit this stuff. In this case, they were totaled vehicles and the law says they have to be repaired and undergo an enhanced safety inspection to make sure they’re safe. The defendants allowed hundreds of heavily damaged vehicles onto roadways without even looking at them. They didn’t complete the safety inspections, they just filled out the paperwork, and a lot of times they forged documents and forged signatures. They claim that they did 240 inspections, but they completed them using stock photographs and admitted never to completing an enhanced inspection.
Just because you have the authority as a repair shop a body shop or an automotive facility to do something doesn’t mean that just you signing the paperwork makes it right, and this goes for mechanics’ liens too. A lot of repair shops do fake mechanics liens to help people get titles. These things get audited. The DMV, or in this case Pennsylvania it’s called PennDot, they know that you as an automotive facility are given certain privileges to do certain paperwork to put titles through the system. But they also know that sometimes those privileges are abused and so they audit them. They know how to look for red flags. Does this company put through too many? Are the vehicles going through too quickly? They will also look at the percentages. How many are salvaged? How many have liens? Their algorithms on their computer will flag them and then they’ll do a manual audit, and that’s what happened in this case.
It’s not something that’s worth going to jail for. So do your paper. correctly, make sure if somebody else is doing paperwork for you that you know how it’s getting done. You review everything and have a title company explain to you in advance what is going on with your title. How is it going to be obtained? So you’re not accidentally doing something that might be a problem or get your title revoked or maybe even get you or somebody else into trouble.
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Order Vermont Title LoopholeOrder Deceased Owner Title TransferOrder Bonded Title ProcessOrder Abandoned Vehicle ProcessOrder Prior Owner ContactOrder Lien Release Request LetterPGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLmFjdWl0eXNjaGVkdWxpbmcuY29tL3NjaGVkdWxlLnBocD9vd25lcj0xOTQ4ODEyNiZhcHBvaW50bWVudFR5cGU9MjMwNjY0MTAiIHRpdGxlPSJTY2hlZHVsZSBBcHBvaW50bWVudCIgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iODAwIiBmcmFtZUJvcmRlcj0iMCI+PC9pZnJhbWU+PHNjcmlwdCBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vZW1iZWQuYWN1aXR5c2NoZWR1bGluZy5jb20vanMvZW1iZWQuanMiIHR5cGU9InRleHQvamF2YXNjcmlwdCI+PC9zY3JpcHQ+
If you’re not on the title, are you still allowed to sell the car?
A car title is a legal government document. Similar to a passport or a social security card, this document is only valid if it is printed by an official government agency. You cannot print a car title online or buy one from a non-government agency. The purpose of a car title is to prove that you own your vehicle and have proof of ownership for that vehicle. This makes it easier for you to sell or trade in your vehicle, as well as transfer ownership of the vehicle from owner to owner.
If you’re not the legal owner of the car, you cannot sell the vehicle without the owner’s signature and permission. However, if the owner signed a power of attorney, you may be able to sell the car on their behalf.
A power of attorney is a legal document that enables an individual to delegate authority over his or her financial affairs to another person. The person who holds power of attorney can handle asset transactions and banking activities on behalf of someone else. In most cases, this is done when someone is ill or incapacitated and cannot handle these tasks for themselves.
If the owner of your car has signed a power of attorney form giving you permission to sell his or her vehicle on their behalf, then you can legally sell it off as long as it’s not in violation of any other laws or contracts filed by either party involved.
Every state has a process to transfer a vehicle title from a deceased owner. This process may involve providing the owner’s death certificate and usually can only be done by relatives or with their written approval.
Oftentimes when a member of the military is deployed, they’ll leave their vehicle in the care of a trusted civilian relative. Before deploying, many military service members will provide a power of attorney to that relative to handle their assets while being deployed. If there is no power of attorney, contact the base where they are posted. The base will provide opportunities for military service members to sign documents and conduct other civilian business when necessary.
If the owner of the vehicle is in prison or jail, they likely did not have the time beforehand to sign a power of attorney. However, every prison or jail has a “signing day” typically once or twice per month where inmates are able to sign official documents needed for their outside life.
If the co-owner is an ex-spouse, the process to sell the vehicle may be a bit more difficult. If you can get your ex-spouse to sign off on the title transfer, then you will have no problems. If you cannot get your ex-spouse to sign the title or they are not able to be contacted, you can request a court-ordered title with your county clerk.
If you’re not the owner, it’s probably not yours to sell unless you have a power of attorney. The DMV won’t just take your word that you are the owner of a vehicle unless you have the signed certificate of title. Remember, selling a vehicle without a title is illegal in many jurisdictions. However, if you’re in one of these four scenarios, consider the options available to transfer the title.
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Hello, this is Dave, and today we’re delving into a critical topic that could impact anyone in the realm of car ownership: auto title scams. It’s crucial to pay attention to the process of obtaining a car title, whether you’re entrusting someone else with the task or personally involved in buying a vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll explore a recent and significant auto title scam that unfolded in Pennsylvania, shedding light on the importance of diligence in navigating the complexities of car titles.
Auto title scams have been on the rise, and a recent case in Pennsylvania serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with title fraud. Over the last decade and a half, we’ve witnessed numerous such cases, each revealing the lengths to which some individuals and businesses go to manipulate the title acquisition process.
Title washing is a deceptive practice where individuals or businesses attempt to resolve issues with a problematic title. Whether it’s a lien, salvage designation, parts-only title, or missing documents, title washers resort to filing false paperwork to sidestep the proper channels. While legitimate methods exist to fix title problems, the allure of shortcuts can lead to serious consequences.
In the recent Pennsylvania case, 13 businesses and 19 individuals faced charges in a title washing ring—an elaborate operation that aimed to falsify inspection information and submit fraudulent title applications. The perpetrators sought to bypass rigid requirements, highlighting the lengths some would go to make the title acquisition process more convenient.
Whether dealing with a salvage vehicle or a standard one, clean title or lien, obtaining a car title is a serious matter. Recognized as a legal government document, a car title certifies ownership and verifies the status of the vehicle. Any discrepancies in the paperwork can result in a rigorous process and potential legal consequences.
In the Pennsylvania case, the businesses involved in the title washing scheme took drastic measures. They falsified inspection information, submitted fraudulent title applications, and allowed hundreds of heavily damaged vehicles onto roadways without completing the required safety inspections. Forging documents and signatures became commonplace, as did claiming inspections that never occurred.
Authorities, including the DMV and Pennsylvania’s PennDOT, conduct audits to ensure compliance with the law. Businesses, repair shops, and automotive facilities are granted certain privileges to perform specific paperwork for title processing. However, these privileges are subject to abuse, leading to audits that scrutinize the number of vehicles processed, their speed, and the types of issues involved (e.g., salvaged vehicles, liens). Red flags trigger manual audits, revealing the extent of fraudulent activities.
The key takeaway from this cautionary tale is the importance of ensuring a legitimate and transparent title process. Whether you’re personally involved in obtaining a car title or relying on professional services, it’s imperative to review every document meticulously. Seek the assistance of reputable title companies, understand the intricacies of the title acquisition process, and avoid shortcuts that could lead to revoked titles or legal troubles.
Navigating the world of car titles demands a vigilant and informed approach. Auto title scams can result in severe consequences, affecting both individuals and businesses. Don’t let the promise of convenience or cost-saving strategies lure you into a web of deceit. By prioritizing correctness and transparency in every step of the title process, you can safeguard yourself against the pitfalls associated with auto title scams.
If you have concerns about obtaining a car title or need guidance in navigating the title acquisition process, feel free to reach out to us at [YourCompanyName.com]. We’re here to assist you in making informed decisions and steering clear of the risks associated with auto title scams.
Hello, this is Dave from TileRecovery.com, and today we’re delving into a crucial topic that affects both those securing car titles and individuals purchasing vehicles. It’s essential to pay close attention to the process of obtaining a car title and to scrutinize the history thoroughly. In this blog post, we’ll explore a recent auto title scam, underscoring the significance of diligence in navigating the complex world of car titles.
Auto title scams are not a rare occurrence, and one recent case out of Pennsylvania sheds light on the severity of the issue. This particular scam involved 13 businesses and 19 individuals charged in a title washing ring—a deceptive practice that poses serious legal consequences.
Title washing occurs when individuals or businesses attempt to resolve issues with a problematic title by submitting false paperwork. These issues could range from existing liens, salvage designations, or missing documents. While legitimate methods exist to rectify title problems, shortcuts and fraudulent activities often lead to dire consequences.
In the Pennsylvania case, the businesses involved purchased total vehicles, falsified inspection information, and submitted fraudulent title applications to circumvent strict requirements. The law mandates that total vehicles must undergo repairs and enhanced safety inspections to ensure they are roadworthy. However, the defendants in this case allowed heavily damaged vehicles onto roadways without proper inspections.
Securing a car title is a serious process regulated by the DMV or its equivalent. Whether dealing with salvage vehicles or clean titles, the ownership certification and the status of the vehicle must be accurately represented. Title washing not only compromises the integrity of the title but also poses safety risks when damaged vehicles bypass necessary inspections.
Whether you are personally involved in obtaining a car title or relying on a professional service, it is imperative to ensure that all paperwork is accurate and legitimate. In the Pennsylvania case, the businesses forged documents, signatures, and even claimed inspections that never occurred.
The key takeaway from this case is the importance of doing your paperwork correctly and transparently. Whether you are a business obtaining titles or an individual purchasing a vehicle, review every document meticulously. Seek the assistance of reputable title companies that can guide you through the process and provide a clear understanding of how your title will be obtained.
Navigating the world of car titles requires vigilance and due diligence. Auto title scams can lead to legal troubles, revoked titles, and compromised safety on the road. Don’t let the allure of a shortcut or cost-saving strategy lead you down a path fraught with consequences. Ensure that every step of the title process is conducted with integrity and adherence to the law.
If you have questions or concerns about obtaining a car title, reach out to us at TileRecovery.com. We are here to assist you in making informed decisions and avoiding the pitfalls associated with auto title scams.
Hello, this is Dave from TileRecovery.com, and even before Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc, our firm received a flood of calls—no pun intended—regarding vehicles purchased at salvage auctions that had succumbed to flooding. These vehicles, often sold and resold without proper titles, pose a significant threat to unsuspecting buyers. In this blog post, we’ll explore the hidden risks associated with flooded salvage vehicles and how you can protect yourself from falling into this costly trap.
Many vehicles purchased from salvage auctions, such as Copart and IAA, have been inundated with water, rendering them ineligible for a title. Unfortunately, these vehicles may change hands multiple times after the auction, with subsequent buyers unaware of the title’s unattainability.
Even if a flooded vehicle appears fixable and in good condition, it doesn’t mean it can ever be titled. Most of these cars have VIN numbers entered into the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, effectively canceling their eligibility for titling or registration in the future—an irreversible process.
Examining the images of these flooded vehicles reveals the extent of the damage. While some may show obvious signs of water intrusion, even those seemingly unharmed may have critical components affected. Rust and corrosion in major body panels, mechanical systems, and even underneath the seats where vital wiring and computers reside can result in irreversible damage.
Insurance companies often declare flooded vehicles as total losses, leading to their sale through salvage auctions. However, recent changes make it challenging for buyers to repair and obtain a salvage title. Many vehicles have had their titling privileges revoked, especially those with VIN numbers associated with flood claims.
Attempting to repair a flooded salvage vehicle might seem plausible, but the long-term effects of saltwater intrusion into critical components can’t be underestimated. Even seemingly minor water levels can result in capillary action, causing water to seep into absorbent parts, leading to corrosion and malfunction over time.
To safeguard against falling victim to these risks, buyers must conduct thorough due diligence. Running a history report directly from the DMV or titling authority is crucial. Avoid relying on services like Carfax or online VIN checkers, as they may not provide 100% accurate information.
The short answer is clear: don’t buy flooded salvage vehicles. Despite potential savings, the hidden repair costs, diminished resale value, and the challenge of obtaining a title make these vehicles more trouble than they’re worth. Protect yourself by investing in a clean title vehicle and steering clear of the risks associated with flooded salvage cars.
Remember, the allure of a seemingly good deal can quickly turn into a financial nightmare when dealing with flooded salvage vehicles. If you have any doubts or questions about a potential purchase, reach out to us at TileRecovery.com. We’re here to guide you and ensure you make informed decisions in the complex world of salvage vehicle ownership.
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