This translation application tool is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website uses Google™ Translate to provide automatic translation of its web pages. Get a copy of someone else’s vehicle record.Find consumer assistance and vehicle information.Check the smog test history of a vehicle, verify a repair dealer’s license, and find information on making a wise used vehicle purchase.Check the database of vehicles and watercraft affected by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Sandy.If the seller’s name is not on the title, there must be documentation (such as a bill of sale, dealer report of sale, or power of attorney) authorizing that person to sell the vehicle.If the seller is not the owner or an authorized agent for the owner, they are not entitled to sell the vehicle and you are not entitled to transfer the vehicle to your name. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) labels (which usually appear on the doors, inside hood, tailgate, and hatchback) are missing.Airbag covers are resealed or improperly installed.Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate attached with materials other than rivets.Mud, mold, or rust under the carpet in the trunk.Signs of major repairs on the inner fender structures.Some of the following clues may suggest the vehicle has an undisclosed salvage history: The only exceptions are when a dealer attempts to obtain an NMVTIS report but NMVTIS does not have a record for the vehicle, or if the vehicle is a motorcycle, recreational vehicle, or off-highway vehicle subject to identification under CVC §38010. If the NMVTIS used vehicle history report indicates the vehicle is or has been a junk or salvage, or the certificate of title contains a brand, the dealer must post a disclosure statement on the vehicle while it is displayed for sale. However, this law is difficult to enforce, especially when a vehicle comes from another state.Ĭalifornia licensed dealers must obtain a National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) report from an approved provider before a used vehicle is offered or displayed for sale. Sellers, including dealerships, are legally required to disclose a vehicle’s salvage title and history. Mileage when the vehicle was last sold.The vehicle’s title includes the following information that provide clues to the vehicle’s history: If the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or DMV determines the vehicle or its parts were stolen, the vehicle cannot be registered and the vehicle or parts will be seized. Are not properly repaired or tested and may be dangerous to operate.Although many salvage vehicles are expertly repaired, some vehicles: Be Cautious When Buying a Revived Salvage VehicleĪ revived salvage is a salvage vehicle that was repaired and reregistered with DMV. Learn how to get a salvage certificate issued for a vehicle. A salvage vehicle is a vehicle that has been wrecked or damaged to such an extent that it is considered too expensive to repair. Of all the vehicle brands, salvage might be most important to look out for. of Transportation permit pursuant to California Vehicle Code (CVC) §35780. Park trailers are built upon a single chassis, and may only be transported upon the public highways with a CA Dept. or less of total floor area (excluding compliant loft area space) that are designed for human habitation for recreational or seasonal use only. These vehicles may be sold under a distinctive trade name. Remanufactured: Vehicles remanufactured by a licensed remanufacturer who builds vehicles using reconditioned or used parts.Warranty Return (or Lemon Law Buyback): Vehicles which have been returned to the manufacturer under California’s Lemon Law.Non-USA (Grey market): Vehicles originally manufactured for sale and use outside the United States, but which have been converted to meet federal and California safety and emissions standards.Original Police (or Prior Police): Vehicles formerly used by law enforcement (which usually have high mileage).Original Taxi (or Prior Taxi): Vehicles formerly used for hire (which usually have high mileage).This brand includes previously dismantled (junk) vehicles. Salvaged: Vehicles marked with a “salvaged” brand were involved in an accident, or incurred considerable damage from another source, such as a flood or vandalism.The following brands are included on California Certificates of Title and DMV records: