Beware of buying used cars, even if you think there's a clear title

PHOENIX - If you're buying a used car, beware.

The ABC15 Investigators found some car titles can't be transferred because of hidden liens.

We talked to a Phoenix man who buys cars on Craigslist and restores them. He now has six cars.

He spent $1,200 on the last car after researching the VIN number and what appeared to be a clear title.

It looked like quite a deal, until he tried to get a title in his name.

That's when the man found there was a hidden lien on the title that would have to be paid first.

The seller owed $2,000 in back child support and that amount was put on the lien.

The Arizona Department of Transportation tells us" there are some court ordered liens that are electronically placed in that specific motor vehicle file and would not show up on the title such as most financial liens that appear on the title."

Their advice is good advice.

Before you buy a used car, make sure you get a copy of the motor vehicle record. It can only be requested by the owner of the car.

So, if you're buying a car, meet the seller at a Motor Vehicles Division office.

Make sure you see the report, hand over the money, and transfer the title right there.

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