Used Car ordeal

[puppylove64]

I bought a used car from a dealership 3 months ago. I still have not been able to pick up my tag. They kept telling me there was a title issue and extending my temporary tag. The tag office tells me they don’t know anything and I have to talk to dealer.

Finally yesterday the manager at the dealer tells me he doesn’t know what the issue is. The previous owner says they sent it, but it is lost in mail and they don’t know status of getting a new one. He offers to let me bring the car back….

I was so stunned, I didn’t really answer him. I said I’ll keep waiting for tag/title for now and get back to him. Anyone been in this situation? What would you do? What should I be sure to remember when returning the car?

I know I want a refund, so as to get purchase price plus sale tax. I also put new tires on it for $1200. Essentially I got a $1000 purchase price reduction cause it needed new tires. I tinted the windows, paid interest on my loan and insurance. I guess I’m out those as the cost of driving it for 3 months. I’m confused as to what is fair to ask for.

[ellipses84]

That’s awful! Do you know what state it was registered in? My only thoughts are to call the DMV of that state and / or the police department to see if they can help with any info or the process on their end, like if ownership has changed and they can send you a new title or if it’s been reported stolen.

The old owner or dealership should be able to report a lost title and get it replaced.

Did you pay cash in full? I’d try to get as much as I could from them, so definitely full financial compensation for anything out of your pocket. If you feel ok dealing with them, you could ask they get you a replacement car, with less miles/ more upgrades and transportation fees if it comes from a far away dealership for the price you paid. If there’s too many red flags, take the $$$ and buy somewhere else, but you obviously don’t want to go without a car long.

FWIW I had to call 2 other state DMVs to track down my own titles recently and it was really quick!

[melmel4854]

I am surprised the dealership was able to list/sell it without having the title in hand.

In MA it was very easy for me to get a replacement title for my dad's truck. I am sorry you're dealing with this! I wish I had advice for you.