Beware Hurricane Ian Car Titles Hitting The Market

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.

The Flooded Salvage Vehicle Epidemic

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.

The VIN Dilemma

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.

Assessing the Damage

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.

Salvage Title Revocation

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.

The Illusion of Repair

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.

The Need for Due Diligence

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 Takeaway

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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Difference Between Assembled, Replica and Kit Car Titles. (what is easier)

The world of titling and registering former track cars, race cars, or exotic vehicles can be a daunting journey filled with potential pitfalls. A common question that echoes through our helpline is, “What is the difference between a kit car, an assembled car, and a replica?” In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dissect the major differences and ensure you’re on the right path, steering clear of potential problems.

Understanding the Trio: Kit Cars, Assembled Cars, and Replicas

1. Kit Cars:

• A kit car is a vehicle sold as parts in an assembled kit by a company. Once you assemble the kit into a complete motor vehicle, you present it to your state, where it is issued a new VIN number.
• Kit car manufacturers are usually authorized to issue VIN numbers, although VIN numbers are generally issued for completed vehicles by new car dealerships.
• Example: A roadster kit replicating the old AC Cobras.

2. Assembled Cars:

• An assembled vehicle is one with a body that does not resemble any particular year, make, or model. Think of it as a completely custom vehicle, akin to a Batmobile.
• The vehicle must meet current standards in effect at the time of its assembly.
• Example: Custom cars built from scratch, not resembling any existing model.

3. Replicas:

• A replica vehicle has a body built to resemble and reproduce another vehicle of a specific year and model, using new, reconditioned, or original parts.
• Replicas offer allowances for criteria, allowing adherence to the standards of the year and model being replicated.
• Example: Replicating a 1965 Mustang using appropriate parts.

The Importance of Meeting Standards

– Challenges with Race Cars:

• Race cars like the Lola, which were never manufactured for on-road use, pose challenges in obtaining a legal VIN number. They lack conformity to any specific standards due to their racing origins.

– Modern Vehicles with Limitations:

• Modern cars like the COPO Camaro, although resembling a production vehicle, might not be eligible for titling due to their non-compliance with safety and production standards.

– Custom and Hollywood Creations:

• Custom vehicles, like the Beverly Hillbillies custom truck built by George Barris, may only come with a bill of sale and no title if they don’t conform to federal regulations.

– Navigating Federal Regulations:

• Understanding federal regulations is crucial. Three agencies – the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – lay down rules that states must follow when titling and registering vehicles.

Choosing the Right Path

– Selecting the Appropriate Channel:

• Whether it’s a kit car, assembled vehicle, or replica, each has its pros and cons. Understanding your vehicle’s characteristics is essential for navigating the legal landscape.

– Avoiding Missteps:

• A cautionary note about filing for an abandoned vehicle – it’s not the same as acquiring title, and once filed, the state may seize and auction the vehicle.

The Road Ahead: Ensuring Compliance

– Federal Felonies and VIN Numbers:

• Tampering with VIN numbers is a federal felony. VIN numbers are either factory-issued or government-issued; creating one independently is a serious offense.

– Understanding Title Revocation:

• Just because you have a title doesn’t mean it’s permanent. States can revoke titles if a vehicle is found ineligible or if the title was issued improperly.

– State vs. Federal Regulations:

• States cannot go rogue in setting their own rules; federal regulations ensure consistency across the nation.

Seeking Guidance

For those navigating the complexities of assembled vehicles, kit cars, or replicas, assistance is just a click away. Visit our website at cartitles.com for more information or reach out to our dedicated help desk. Our team is ready to guide you through the intricate process of acquiring a legal title for your unique vehicle.

The world of unique and non-standard vehicles may seem complex, but armed with knowledge and the right guidance, enthusiasts can successfully navigate the maze of titling and registration.

If I Fix A Car Can I Get A Title?

Greetings, automotive enthusiasts! We often find ourselves grappling with a common query – one that echoes through our helpline 20 to 30 times daily. Customers, backyard mechanics, and auto shops alike want to know: if you fix a car, can you keep it? In this blog post, we aim to unravel this mystery and shed light on the complexities surrounding car ownership after repairs.

Scenarios Galore: Who Gets to Keep the Fixed Car?

The situations are diverse. You might be the proud owner of a car you fixed up, perhaps as a labor of love. On the flip side, you could be an auto shop dealing with unpaid bills, or an insurance company looking to dispose of a repaired vehicle. The pivotal question remains: can the person who fixes a car claim ownership?

The Mechanic’s Lien: A Licensed Auto Shop’s Advantage

For licensed automotive repair facilities, the path is relatively clear. The mechanic’s lien, a process recognized in almost every state, empowers licensed auto shops to convert a customer’s repair order into a title. Detailed steps and necessary documentation vary by state, and our website, cartitles.com, provides comprehensive resources on mechanics liens.

Backyard Mechanics and Private Individuals: A Murkier Path

If you’re an individual who fixed a car without the umbrella of an auto shop, the waters get murkier. Simply fixing a car doesn’t automatically grant you ownership. In such cases, individuals may explore alternative methods to secure title ownership.

Alternative Paths to Car Ownership

1. Bonded Title:

• If you possess limited documentation, a bonded title might be an option. This process involves obtaining a surety bond to secure title ownership.
• Text messages or informal agreements won’t cut it as documentation. You need more concrete evidence of your involvement.

2. Court Order Title:

• The court order title process stands out as the most definitive method. It overrides the DMV, as the court holds authority over title matters.
• By filing a petition and presenting a case before the court, individuals can seek a judgment of ownership, subsequently obtaining a title.

The Importance of Legal Authority

The legality of car ownership extends beyond the act of fixing a vehicle. If the true legal owner disputes your claim, a court must decide the rightful owner. This prevents arbitrary claims based solely on repairs and ensures a fair and substantiated decision-making process.

Steering Clear of Abandoned Vehicle Missteps

A word of caution: don’t confuse a bonded title or court order title with filing for an abandoned vehicle. The latter involves vehicles nobody wants, and the state seizes and auctions them. Once you file for abandonment, the process is irreversible, and you may lose any claim to the vehicle.

Your Arsenal Against Title Challenges

If you find yourself entangled in the web of title challenges, fear not. In nearly 42 states, the bonded title process provides a legal avenue to secure ownership. For more information on bonded titles or court order titles, check out our dedicated websites or reach out to our help desk. We’re here to guide you through the intricacies of car title acquisition.

Fixing a car doesn’t guarantee ownership, but there are legal avenues to explore. Understanding the mechanics of mechanics liens, bonded titles, and court order titles empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of car ownership with confidence.

Whether you’re a grease-stained mechanic or an enthusiastic car owner, remember: the road to legal car ownership might have twists, but with the right knowledge, you can steer clear of pitfalls and claim your rightful title.