Making sure a car title is clear

[mrsklamc]

So the car fax report on a car we want to purchase shows a lien. We're buying it from carmax so I can't imagine it's not clear, but how would we make sure?

 

[1Mouse2RulethemAll]

So the car fax report on a car we want to purchase shows a lien. We're buying it from carmax so I can't imagine it's not clear, but how would we make sure?

Ask them for clarification.


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[mrsklamc]

We will, but since they are the seller they have a vested interest in making the sale. We are trying to find out how we would verify something like that independently of the dealer.

 

[andysomma1]

So the car fax report on a car we want to purchase shows a lien. We're buying it from carmax so I can't imagine it's not clear, but how would we make sure?

Take the VIN to the tag agency. They will let you know.

 

[mrsklamc]

Take the VIN to the tag agency. They will let you know.

Thanks! Do you know if it has to be the same state the lien was placed, or if I can do it in any state?

 

[benniecooper]

If you are buying the car from Carmax, they have to provide a clear title, with no lien. Now, with that said, if the car was traded into Carmax, or they purchased it from someone and paid the lien off, it does take alittle time for this to be reported to Carfax...can be well over 30 days. I have been in the car business since 1993 and I do the title work for an Acura and Mazda dealership right now. I would be happy to answer any other questions that you have.

You would need to verify the lien in the state that it was recorded in.

 

[Bell30012]

If a car has been taken in on trade by a dealer, the lien may not show as cleared on a Carfax, yet. First, the dealer had to send a check to the lender. Then the lender had to sign off on the lien and send the title. Finally, Carfax had to update their database. It all takes time.