IS it really necessary to have the title in order to sell a car? (vehicle, buy)

[midchild]

Im a college student and my buick has been giving me the flux lately. So, im planning on selling it and putting some money down on a newer car.

The moral of the story is, my dad thinks a Regal (98) has more value over the Grand Prix (08) and he wont give me the title to the car.

So if he wants to be a prick, ill be one in return and sell my car. I mean its already paid off and all I've been having to do is keep gas in it. So is there a way to sell it without the title, or do I have to really concoct a plan to get my title?

[Deez Nuttz]

Check your local laws. Normally yes you are require to forfeit the title to the new owner upon sale. Some states don't require titles for older cars.

Big question is who's name is on the title? if your name isn't on there, then you cannot sell the car.

[Bummer]

My first guess would be . . . YES!

[texdav]

If its in your name in most states you can get another duplicate tilte;if not it really is not your car and you can't sell it.

[Compression]

Generally, a car for sale without title is sold as a parts car. In most places you cannot re sell it, you cannot register it. It's only value is in breaking it up for parts. Even scrap yards, now require a title to be surrendered with the vehicle when you take it in to have it crushed. The laws have really tightened up on this in the past few years.
Most people know this, and would not even consider buying a car without a title, at any price, unless they really enjoy headaches.
To put it another way, the title "IS" ownership. Without that peice of paper that SAY you own it, it's just another car at the curb.
Concocting a "plan" as you put it, is tantamount to grand theft auto. Assuming that your name is NOT on the title.

Edit: BTW, in today's economy, a car that is paid for is worth twenty cars that are not paid for.

[yo vanilla]

Originally Posted by texdav

If its in your name in most states you can get another duplicate tilte;if not it really is not your car and you can't sell it.

What he said. Whoever's name is on the title is the owner of the car. You're going to have to hug it out with your dad. He's right, I wouldn't buy a 2008 GP. See if you two can come to a compromise in order to get the title.

[RedNC]

Since you have no equity in the car and have done nothing to earn it, I would say give it back to “daddy” and go out and purchase your own car.

[city_data91]

When the car is having problems, show your dad so he can see for himself. Maybe that will change his mind.

[Bummer]

Originally Posted by texdav

If its in your name in most states you can get another duplicate tilte;if not it really is not your car and you can't sell it.

Good point, Texdav.

Depending on the circumstances, a replacement title is an option, however, a title is still necessary in order to sell the vehicle.

[rlrl]

use the letter of release of lien if you don't have the title per se