Overhaulin'

Is it legal for a car lot to sell a car with a lein on the title at the time of purchase? PAID CASH FOR IT!?

Public Comments

1. Probably, if the lienholder is getting paid. Check with DMV as to whether the liens have been removed. Why didn't you see the title before you paid?
2. id say no it was their car to be selling if it had a lien means somoe had a loan on it and still belongs to them in a way
3. He should have told you about the lien. If he didn't, you can take him to court.
4. Are you certain it still has a lien? Or does the title just show a lienholder? if it is on the title, check your paperwork for a document called a "release of Lien". if that is not there, and there is still a lien on the car, then he should not have sold it. The bank or lienholder is still the legal owner of that car, not the dealer. They may be planning to take your money and satisfy the lien, but that is an assbackward way of doing things. check the DMV to be certain there is a lien. If so, ask them what your remedies are. The DMV can get results with dealers much faster than anyone else.
5. Probably a 'mechanic's lein'. It should have been taken care of BEFORE you bought it. Find out who has the lein and contact them to be sure. If it is unpaid, it is the dealer's fault. I betcha comewhere there is a piece of paper that states 'this car has no leins or encumberances.