Discovering that your dealer never provided the title for your vehicle is something that, unfortunately, isn’t uncommon. But when it happens, you may find yourself unable to register your car, obtain plates, and prove ownership in the way the law requires. If your dealer sold your car without a title, read this blog and reach out to the New Mexico car dealer fraud lawyers at Feferman, Warren & Mattison to learn more about how we can help. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What does New Mexico law require dealers to provide?

When a dealer sells a car, they must give the buyer the documents needed to legally take ownership. One of those documents is a valid title. Without it, your ability to use the vehicle is limited from the start, and your risk increases. Car dealers are required to do the following:

  • Provide a clean and transferable title.
  • Accurately disclose the condition of that title, including branded or rebuilt status.
  • Complete the required paperwork in a timely manner so the buyer can register the vehicle.

If a dealer does not follow these rules, the transaction may violate state law, and the buyer may have a potential claim for compensation, repairs, or a refund.

What should you do immediately after realizing you have no title?

The worst thing you can do is simply wait for the situation to fix itself. It rarely does. Acting quickly helps protect your ability to resolve the issue. The first steps you should take are as follows:

  • Contact the dealer in writing to request the title.
  • Keep copies of every message, phone call, and visit.
  • Avoid driving the car if you cannot legally register it.
  • Gather your sales contract, financing documents, and receipts.

Some dealers promise they will handle the matter soon, but then weeks pass with no progress. Others may provide excuses or incomplete paperwork. These delays often signal deeper issues, including the possibility that the dealer never had proper ownership of the car. Once you see these warning signs, you’re no longer dealing with a simple mistake; you’re dealing with a problem that likely requires the assistance of an attorney.

How can a lawyer help?

When you hire a lawyer, you have someone on your side who knows how to apply pressure, evaluate the dealer’s conduct, and pursue the remedies available under the law. An attorney here at Feferman, Warren & Mattison can help you seek the following:

  • Delivery of the proper title
  • Cancellation of the sale
  • A refund of your purchase price
  • Compensation for related financial losses

If you have additional questions or would like to speak with an attorney about your case, please don’t hesitate to contact Feferman, Warren & Mattison for a free initial consultation today.