Introduction

• Importance of checking title and lien status when buying a vehicle.
• Emphasize the necessity of verifying title status before purchasing.

Using Online VIN Checkers

• Caution against relying on third-party VIN check sites like Carfax or VIN Check.
• These sites do not provide official title records or lien information.
• Disclaimers indicate their limitations in accessing complete records.

Official Sources for Title Records

• The only official source for title records is government agencies.
• Title record management is typically handled by:
  • Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
  • Motor Vehicle Department
  • Department of Transportation
  • Secretary of State (in some states)
• Obtaining records directly from these agencies ensures accuracy.

How to Check Title Status in New York

• Visit the DMV title status website.
• Input the vehicle's VIN, year, and make (e.g., Mercedes-Benz, Chevrolet).
• Limited information available: title issuance, title rejection status, and lien status.

When to Conduct Research

• If buying a vehicle without a legal title, due diligence is necessary.
• Sellers may provide various documents (bill of sale, notarized registration) but these are worthless without the original title.
• A reminder: once you pay, the seller may not assist you further.

Additional Information

• In most cases for title issuance (bonded title, court order title), you don’t need to check title status; the government will do it for you.
• If additional research is needed, you may have to submit a Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) request.

Conclusion

• The original legal title certificate is the only necessary document for title transfer.
• For more helpful content on this topic, explore other videos on our channel.

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