Buying A Lien Sale Car - In California

When you purchase a vehicle at a lien sale, the lienholder is legally required to provide you with specific documentation. Do not finalize a purchase without these items, as they are essential for your registration application:

: Proof that the lienholder notified the registered and legal owners of the pending sale. buying a lien sale car in california

: Check the VIN with the DMV before buying to ensure there are no unpaid parking tickets or other holds that you might become responsible for. When you purchase a vehicle at a lien

: A copy of the vehicle's record used to identify interested parties before the sale. : A copy of the vehicle's record used

: For vehicles valued over $4,000, there is a 10-day redemption period after the sale during which the original owner can reclaim the car by paying the debt and interest.

: Most vehicles will require a new smog check unless they are specifically exempt (e.g., very new models or electric vehicles).

: Either Form REG 168A for vehicles valued at $4,000 or less, or Form REG 168 for those over $4,000.