In all of life's endeavors, you'll come across important documents needed to prove ownership of assets. One of those pieces of information is a car title. C&S Car Company has put together an informative guide for what owners need to know.
What Is A Car Title?
A car title proves that you're the legal owner of your vehicle. Depending on where you live, the information contained on them varies slightly. Typically, what's listed below is on a car title.
Data used to identify your car- This information includes the VIN (vehicle identification number) along with the make and model of the vehicle, year, and color. It should also include the current odometer reading.
License plate- A current license plate number should be on your car title.
Lienholder (if applicable)- Financing a vehicle means you'll find the lender's information on the car title. Once you've paid the loan in full, it gets transferred into your name.
The owner's information- Your name and current address will be on the title.
Car titles used to be referred to as "pink slips" because of their distinguishable color. However, now they look different depending on your state. Some are different colors and sizes, but they all provide the necessary information that's required.
Types Of Car Titles
Titles become what's known as "branded" depending on the current state of the vehicle. Here is an overview of the most common types of car titles: 1. Clean title- This is considered the holy grail of car title status. It has never been involved in an accident or incurred severe damage, or been totaled. 2. Clear title- A clear title means there are no liens against the vehicle. The car has been paid off. 3. Salvage title- A salvage title has been identified as a total loss by an insurance company. Any cost to repair such a vehicle will exceed its current value. 4. Rebuilt title- The rebuilt title means a salvage vehicle has been repaired to make it ready for driving. However, it can't achieve a clean status. Other titles given to titles can be a flood, lemon, fire, junk, and more, depending on the situation.
How To Get A Car Title
If you buy a used or new car, our dealership is responsible for the title transfer to you. The vehicle's current mileage will be issued on the title, along with your name. This information is important when applying for registration at the local DMV. Financed vehicles will have your lender's info, then you'll receive an official title in the mail after the loan is paid off.
Why You Should Buy A Car With A Title It's a significant risk to buy a vehicle without a title, such as an independent transaction. You could end up buying a car that is legally owned by someone else who could prove ownership. Buying from a trusted dealership like ours is always the best option. Checking the VIN on the vehicle history should match up with the mileage on the odometer.
My Vehicle's Important Documents Owning a vehicle means being responsible for many important pieces of information. Where should you keep that information along with the car title? Items That Should Be Kept Inside The Car
Keep a copy of your registration in a safe location (either in your wallet or in the glove compartment)
Always have proof of insurance readily available, too, with the registration
The owner's manual which will be needed if you break down or to check a notification on the dashboard
The car title is one of the documents that shouldn't be kept inside the vehicle. That is a location that would put you at risk should you have a car break-in. As it proves legal ownership of the car, it's easy to see why you want it out of wrongful hands. Keep it in a place that's very unlikely to get lost or stolen, such as a deposit box, safe, or secure hiding place. Should you lose the original title, you are available to get another copy, but you can save the hassle by keeping it safely secured.
Have Questions About Buying A Car? Call C&S Car Company There's a lot to consider when you're buying a new or pre-owned vehicle, but our dealership can make the process as straightforward as possible. We can help ensure all your necessary documentation is taken care of in a professional manner. Reach out for any additional questions you may have.
